(845) 802-0047Endodontist Malpractice: Negligent Root Canals
Medical Malpractice MistakesA root canal is a treatment that is used to repair and save a tooth that has become badly decayed or infected. Once the nerve of a tooth has become infected or the pulp has become damaged, a root canal may be necessary. During the procedure, the nerve and pulp is removed. Then the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed. Endodontists are specially trained to treat a tooth whose nerve has been exposed due to decay or has been injured because of an injury and are in need of a root canal. The tasks Endodontists performs when performing a root canal take several steps.
- Using an instrument called a “barb” or “reamer,” the nerve tissue within the canal of each tooth is removed.
- Using a series of successively sized files, the canal is shaped so that it is smooth and continuous and so that it can be filled without any voids.
- Using a bleach-like substance known as sodium hypochlorite, the dentist sterilizes the canal.
- The last step is to fill and seal the canals with gutta-percha.
If several aspects of Endodontic treatment are not performed correctly or completely they can result in a failed root canal.
- If all nerve material is not removed or canals are not properly sterilized before filling, bacteria will be permitted to flourish and an infection will develop.
- If too much force is used when injecting the bleaching agent, it can enter the nerve canal at the end of the tooth, resulting in permanent injury to the nerve.
- If the filling material, gutta-percha, is placed beyond the apex or tip of the tooth, the main nerve trunk could be injured.
If you or a loved one has experienced nerve damage and chronic pain as the result of negligent root canal, contact an experienced medical malpractice attorney to evaluate your case.
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