Recovering Compensation for Dental Nerve Damage Caused by Malpractice

During oral surgery or other procedures, damage can occur to the nerves in the jaw that affect the tongue, gums, teeth, lips and chin. These nerve injuries, which could result from dental malpractice, can have serious and lasting consequences for patients. Understanding how these nerves can be damaged provides insight into the potential symptoms and impacts on a patient's life.

The main nerves that are vulnerable during dental work and oral surgery are the following:

1. Inferior alveolar nerve — This runs through the mandible and supplies sensation to the lower teeth and the chin. Injury to this nerve can result in numbness or tingling in the lower lip, chin and teeth. Severe damage can cause loss of sensation and difficulties with speaking and eating. 

2. Lingual nerve — This provides sensation to the tongue and the floor of the mouth. Injury to the lingual nerve can cause numbness, altered taste, or burning sensations on the tongue. Patients may also experience difficulty speaking and swallowing.

3. Mental nerve — Branching from the inferior alveolar nerve, the mental nerve supplies sensation to the lower lip and chin. Injury to this nerve often results in numbness or tingling in these areas.

Nerve Injuries

1. Lower wisdom tooth extractions — Wisdom tooth extractions, particularly in the lower jaw, are a common cause of nerve injuries if performed negligently. If the extraction is not done with proper precision, it can damage the surrounding nerves.

2. Dental implants — Improperly placed dental implants can traumatize nearby nerves. If an implant is placed too close to a nerve or if it encroaches upon the nerve canal, it can cause significant damage.

3. Improper extraction of third molars — The extraction of third molars, or wisdom teeth, can pose a risk to the nerves if not conducted properly. The proximity of the lower wisdom teeth to the inferior alveolar nerve increases the risk of injury during extraction.

4. Injecting anesthesia — Administering anesthesia too close to a nerve or injecting it directly into a nerve can cause nerve damage. Anesthesia is meant to numb the area, but if injected improperly, it can lead to nerve trauma.

5. Prolonged jaw hyperextension — During lengthy procedures, patients might need to keep their jaws open for extended periods. This can put undue stress on the nerves and surrounding tissues, leading to potential nerve damage.

6. Failure to refer to a specialist — If a dentist fails to recognize the extent of a nerve injury and does not refer the patient to a specialist, the injury may worsen. Proper and timely referral to a specialist is crucial for the best chance of recovery.

Patients who suffer from nerve injuries due to dental malpractice may be entitled to various types of compensation. This can include medical expenses for treatment and rehabilitation, lost wages due to inability to work, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the diminished quality of life. An experienced dental nerve injury attorney will work to obtain compensation based on the severity of the injury and the impact on the patient’s daily life.

Rich & Rich, P.C. is skilled in helping New Yorkers obtain compensation for dental nerve injuries and for expenses incurred as a result of dental malpractice. We have offices in midtown Manhattan and Roslyn Heights, Long Island. Please call 347-696-7707 or contact us online for a free consultation.