The patient had a palatal sub-gingival cavity in UR1. The tooth was tender to percussion and the gum surrounding it was also tender but the patient reported no sensitivity to hot or cold stimuli.
The dentist restored the tooth. The patient subsequently complained of pain and looseness in the tooth. She was seen again by the dentist the following week. Examination revealed a deep pocket mesially. The dentist prescribed antibiotics and took a periapical radiograph. This showed a root fracture of UR1. Comparison with a radiograph taken two years earlier confirmed that the fracture pre-dated the filling. The dentist recommended that the tooth be extracted and replaced with a partial immediate denture. This was unacceptable to the patient who asked for a referral to a dental hospital with a view to having a bridge constructed or receiving an implant.
Negligence alleged
It was alleged that the dentist had failed to diagnose the root fracture and as a result had treated the patient inappropriately causing her to suffer personal injury, loss and damage.
Outcome
The dentist accepted that he had failed to diagnose a root fracture owing to a poor quality radiograph and so failed to recognise that the cavity was due to resorption. He acknowledged that the filling may have caused an acute soft tissue inflammation. Expert opinion confirmed that in view of the existing root fracture the loss of the tooth was inevitable. The patient agreed to an out-of-court settlement of £2,000 plus costs.
This page was correct at publication on 05/04/2002. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.