When we visit a dentist, we place immense trust in their expertise and professionalism. In most cases, this trust is well placed, and the care we receive is competent and thorough. However, there are unfortunate occasions when dental treatment falls below the expected standard, leading to avoidable pain, distress, or further medical issues. If you have experienced poor dental care in Fordingbridge that resulted in harm, you may have grounds to pursue a dental negligence or malpractice claim.
This blog explores what dental negligence is, how to recognise it, the process of making a claim, and how Marley Solicitors can support you in Fordingbridge with your case.
What is dental negligence?
Dental negligence refers to a breach of duty by a dental professional that results in substandard care and causes harm or injury to the patient. It may be the result of an error during treatment, a misdiagnosis, or a failure to provide appropriate care and advice.
To be considered legal negligence, it must be proven that:
- The dental professional owed you a duty of care
- That duty of care was breached
- You suffered harm as a direct result of that breach
Common examples of dental malpractice
There are several situations that could constitute dental negligence. These may include:
- Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of dental conditions
- Incorrect or unnecessary dental treatment
- Failure to obtain informed consent
- Poorly performed procedures, such as root canals, fillings, or extractions
- Nerve damage caused during dental treatment
- Failure to spot and treat gum disease
- Infections resulting from poor hygiene practices
- Cosmetic procedures that result in pain or disfigurement
While some discomfort is a normal part of many dental procedures, excessive pain, long-term complications, or deterioration of your dental health after treatment may point to malpractice.
Signs you may have experienced dental negligence
Recognising dental negligence can be difficult, especially when some discomfort or follow-up treatment is expected. However, if you have experienced any of the following, it may be worth seeking legal advice:
- Persistent pain after a procedure that was not properly addressed
- Worsening of a dental condition that was previously diagnosed and treated
- Being left with visible damage or disfigurement
- Development of infection or abscess after treatment
- Feeling pressured into a treatment plan without full explanation
- No improvement or worsening condition after cosmetic procedures
In Fordingbridge, patients trust local practices for quality care. If that trust has been broken, it is essential to know your legal options.
Can I make a dental negligence claim?
If you believe you have been harmed due to negligent dental care, you may be eligible to make a claim. You must be able to show that the care you received was below the standard expected of a competent dental professional and that this caused you harm or additional suffering.
Dental negligence claims can be made against both NHS and private dentists. Whether your treatment occurred at a high street practice or within a hospital setting, you have the same legal rights.
Claims typically need to be made within three years of the date of the negligence or when you first became aware of it. Exceptions may apply for children or individuals who lack mental capacity, but it is best to seek advice as early as possible.
How to start your claim in Fordingbridge
If you are based in Fordingbridge or the surrounding areas, you can start your dental negligence claim by contacting Marley Solicitors for a free initial consultation. Our legal team will discuss your case in confidence, review your experience, and advise whether we believe there are sufficient grounds to pursue compensation.
To support your claim, you should collect as much evidence as possible. This might include:
- Dental records and treatment notes
- Photographs of visible damage or disfigurement
- Details of appointments and conversations with your dentist
- Receipts for any additional treatment or medication required
- A diary of symptoms or pain experienced
- Witness statements from friends, family, or carers
Our team will help you gather the necessary documentation and can request your dental records on your behalf. We will also arrange for independent dental experts to assess the standard of care you received.
What compensation can I receive?
Compensation in dental negligence cases is intended to put you in the position you would have been in if the negligence had not occurred. The amount awarded depends on the nature and severity of your injury or harm.
Typical compensation includes:
- General damages for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity
- Special damages to cover financial losses, such as:
- Cost of corrective dental treatment
- Travel expenses
- Loss of income due to time off work
- Future treatment or care costs
Every case is different, and the value of a claim will vary based on individual circumstances. Marley Solicitors will ensure all relevant factors are considered in order to secure the maximum compensation available.
How long does the process take?
Dental negligence claims can vary in duration depending on their complexity and whether the dentist or their insurer accepts liability. Some straightforward claims may be settled within 6 to 12 months. Others, particularly those involving severe harm or disputed liability, may take 18 months or longer.
At Marley Solicitors, we work efficiently to progress your claim without unnecessary delay. We will keep you informed at every stage and guide you through the process with clarity and compassion.
No win, no fee dental negligence claims
We understand that legal costs can be a barrier to justice. That is why we offer most dental negligence claims on a no win, no fee basis. This means there is no financial risk to you in starting a claim. If your claim is unsuccessful, you will not have to pay our legal fees.
If your case is successful, a portion of your compensation will be used to cover legal costs. This will be explained clearly at the outset so there are no surprises.
Why choose Marley Solicitors in Fordingbridge?
At Marley Solicitors, we are committed to providing expert, personal legal support to individuals in Fordingbridge and across the wider Hampshire and Dorset region. We have a strong track record of successfully resolving dental negligence and medical malpractice claims.
Clients choose us because:
- We offer a free, no-obligation consultation
- Our solicitors have specialist experience in clinical negligence law
- We are friendly, approachable, and dedicated to our clients’ well-being
- We provide clear communication without legal jargon
- We work on a no win, no fee basis to reduce financial pressure
We pride ourselves on combining legal excellence with genuine care and empathy.
Support for residents of Fordingbridge
Fordingbridge is a close-knit community where reputation and trust matter. If you have suffered due to poor dental treatment, you deserve proper redress. Marley Solicitors is proud to serve the residents of Fordingbridge, offering accessible, reliable legal advice close to home.
Our solicitors understand the stress and uncertainty caused by dental malpractice. We are here to listen, support, and help you move forward with confidence.
Get in touch with Marley Solicitors today
If you are concerned that you may have experienced dental negligence in Fordingbridge, we encourage you to get in touch. Our experienced legal team is ready to assess your case and guide you through the next steps.
To arrange your free initial consultation, contact Marley Solicitors today. We are here to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
