You Think Your Dentist Made a Mistake — Now What?

Discovering that your dental treatment may have gone wrong is both frightening and frustrating. Whether it's persistent pain after a procedure, a crown that doesn't fit, or a diagnosis you suspect was missed — knowing your next steps is critical.

First, get a second opinion. Another dentist can review your records and radiographs to confirm whether the treatment you received fell below the accepted standard of care.

Request your complete dental records. You have a legal right to your dental records. These include treatment notes, radiographs, consent forms, and billing records. Having these on hand is essential for any evaluation.

Consider consulting a dental expert witness. A qualified expert can objectively analyze your case, determine if malpractice occurred, and provide a professional opinion that may be used in legal proceedings.

Understand the statute of limitations. In most states, you have a limited window to file a dental malpractice claim. In Arizona, for example, this is typically two years from the date of injury or discovery.

Document everything. Keep records of all symptoms, follow-up treatments, and communications with your dental provider. Photographs of visible damage can also be valuable evidence.

If you believe you've been harmed by substandard dental care, Dr. Berschler offers free initial consultations to help you understand your options and the strength of your case.