Ocala Dentist Accused of Jaw Injury During Wisdom Tooth Extraction

Florida Woman Sues Dentist After Jaw Fracture During Wisdom Tooth Extraction

ocala,FL – A Marion County woman is suing a local dentist,alleging her jaw was broken during a wisdom tooth extraction due to inadequate anesthesia. Danielle M. Geils filed a lawsuit against Citrus Oral & Facial Surgery at ocala adn Dr. Rushi S. Patel on July 25th, claiming negligence led to the fracture.

According to the lawsuit, Geils underwent a wisdom tooth extraction on May 22, 2024, at the practice’s Ocala location on SE 17th Street. Prior to the procedure, Geils requested general anesthesia due to anxiety about the surgery.

however, dr. Patel’s operation notes state Geils was “combative throughout the procedure.” The lawsuit argues this combative behavior stemmed from insufficient sedation. During the extraction of one wisdom tooth, Geils allegedly “aggressively whipped her head forward,” at which point Dr. Patel observed a fracture of her right jaw angle.

Mandibular fractures during wisdom tooth extractions are rare, occurring in fewer than 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 15,000 cases, the complaint states. While fractures can occur independently of negligence,the lawsuit alleges this incident resulted from inadequate sedation and perhaps,excessive force during the extraction.

Following the injury, Geils sought treatment at UF Health at Shands, were the fracture was surgically repaired with metal plates and screws. She continues to experience complications from the injury.

The lawsuit accuses Dr. Patel of failing to ensure adequate sedation and applying excessive force during the extraction,contributing to the fracture. Geils is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and diminished quality of life.

Citrus Oral & Facial Surgery also has a location in Crystal River. As of today, Dr. Patel and Citrus Oral & Facial Surgery have not publicly commented on the lawsuit.

If a patient experiences nerve damage after wisdom tooth extraction, what steps should they take to document and address the potential dental malpractice?

Understanding the Allegations & Potential Complications

Recent reports indicate an Ocala dentist is facing accusations related to a jaw injury sustained by a patient during a wisdom tooth extraction procedure. This situation raises important questions about dental malpractice,patient safety,and the potential for nerve damage following oral surgery.It’s crucial to understand the complexities involved, both from a legal and medical perspective. This article will delve into the potential causes of such injuries, patient rights, and what recourse is available.

What can go Wrong During Wisdom tooth removal?

While generally a routine procedure, wisdom tooth extraction isn’t without risks. Several complications can arise, some more serious than others.These include:

Dry Socket: A painful condition occurring when the blood clot at the extraction site is dislodged.

Infection: post-operative infections can occur if proper oral hygiene isn’t maintained.

Nerve Damage: This is a significant concern, notably with lower wisdom teeth, as they are often close to the inferior alveolar nerve and lingual nerve. Damage can lead to:

Numbness or tingling in the lip,chin,and tongue.

Persistent pain.

Difficulty with speech or swallowing.

Jaw Fracture: Though rare, a fracture can occur during a difficult extraction.

Sinus Communication: Upper wisdom teeth can sometimes communicate with the sinus cavity.

The Specifics of the Ocala Case: Allegations & Investigation

Details surrounding the Ocala dentist accusation are still emerging. Initial reports suggest the patient alleges the dentist used excessive force during the wisdom tooth extraction, resulting in a fractured jaw and subsequent complications. The Florida Board of Dentistry is likely investigating the claims,reviewing medical records,and possibly interviewing witnesses.

Key areas of investigation will likely include:

Pre-operative Assessment: Was a thorough assessment conducted, including X-rays, to identify potential risks and anatomical variations?

Surgical Technique: Did the dentist adhere to the standard of care in performing the extraction?

Force Applied: Was excessive or inappropriate force used during the procedure?

Post-operative Care: Were adequate post-operative instructions provided to the patient?

Dental malpractice & Your Rights as a Patient

If you believe you’ve suffered an injury due to dental negligence – whether it’s a wisdom tooth extraction gone wrong, a root canal complication, or another dental procedure – you have rights. Dental malpractice occurs when a dentist deviates from the accepted standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical bills, treatment records, and communications with the dentist.
2. Seek a Second Opinion: Consult with another dentist to get an self-reliant assessment of your condition.
3. Consult with a Dental Malpractice Attorney: An attorney specializing in dental negligence can evaluate your case and advise you on your legal options. They can help determine if the dentist’s actions fell below the accepted standard of care and if you have a valid claim.
4. File a Complaint: You can file a complaint with the Florida Board of Dentistry.

Understanding the Standard of Care in Wisdom Tooth Extraction

The “standard of care” refers to the level of skill and care that a reasonably competent dentist would exercise under similar circumstances.In the context of wisdom tooth extraction, this includes:

Proper Diagnosis: Accurate assessment of the tooth’s position and relationship to surrounding structures.

Appropriate Surgical Planning: Developing a surgical plan based on the individual patient’s anatomy and the complexity of the extraction.

Skillful Execution: Performing the extraction with precision and minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.

Effective Pain Management: Providing adequate anesthesia and post-operative pain control.

Comprehensive post-operative Instructions: Educating the patient on proper wound care and potential complications.

Potential Legal Recourse: What Can You Recover?

If a dental malpractice claim is prosperous, you may be entitled to recover damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Costs associated with treating the injury, including hospital bills, surgery, and ongoing care.

Lost Wages: Compensation for lost income due to the injury.

pain and Suffering: compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.

* Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the dentist and deter similar conduct in the future.

Preventative Measures & Choosing a Qualified Dentist

While complications can occur even