If you have suffered due to a botched root canal procedure in Newbury, you may be entitled to compensation. Dental negligence can have lasting consequences, from chronic pain and infection to financial strain and emotional distress. At Marley Solicitors, we specialise in helping individuals pursue justice after negligent dental treatments, including root canal errors. This blog will explore what root canal negligence is, your legal rights, and how you can start a claim in the Newbury area.
What is root canal negligence?
Root canal treatment (endodontic therapy) is a common dental procedure used to treat infections in the centre of a tooth. While usually successful, things can go wrong when dental professionals fail to meet the expected standard of care. Root canal negligence occurs when a dentist’s actions or inactions fall below this standard and result in avoidable harm.
Examples of root canal negligence include:
- Failing to remove all the infected tissue
- Not properly sterilising instruments
- Leaving parts of dental tools inside the tooth
- Perforating the root canal or surrounding areas
- Failing to diagnose infection or complications
- Not informing the patient of risks or alternatives
If any of these errors apply to your situation and have led to pain, infection, further dental work or tooth loss, you may be eligible to claim compensation.
Signs your root canal treatment may have been negligent
It is not always easy to identify dental negligence right away. In many cases, symptoms may only become apparent weeks or even months after the procedure. Common signs include:
- Persistent pain or swelling
- A recurring infection or abscess
- A cracked or broken tooth after the treatment
- Numbness in the face or jaw
- Loosening or loss of the treated tooth
If you have experienced any of the above following a root canal in Newbury, it is crucial to seek both medical and legal advice as soon as possible.
How to prove dental negligence
To make a successful root canal negligence claim, you need to prove two things:
- Breach of duty: That the dentist failed to deliver care that met the accepted standard.
- Causation: That this failure directly caused you harm.
Gathering the following evidence can strengthen your case:
- Dental records and X-rays
- Photographs of any visible damage
- A diary of your symptoms and treatment
- Correspondence with the dentist or clinic
- Second opinions from other dental professionals
Our experienced solicitors will help you obtain and assess this evidence to build a strong case.
Root canal negligence in Newbury: Local context
In the Newbury area, dental patients may receive treatment at private clinics or through NHS services such as West Berkshire Community Hospital or the Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust. If your treatment was conducted at one of these facilities or at local practices such as Newbury Dental Practice or Westbrook House Dental Surgery, and you suspect negligence, you can still bring a claim.
Claims can be made whether the dental work was NHS-funded or private. The key consideration is not who paid for the treatment, but whether the standard of care was reasonable.
Time limits for making a claim
In the UK, you generally have three years from the date of the negligence or from when you became aware of it to make a claim. This is known as the limitation period.
There are exceptions, including:
- Children: If the patient was under 18 at the time, they have until their 21st birthday to start a claim.
- Lack of mental capacity: If the patient lacks the capacity to claim, there is no time limit until (and unless) capacity is regained.
It is important to act as early as possible to ensure your legal team has time to investigate your case thoroughly.
How much compensation can you claim?
The amount of compensation for root canal negligence varies depending on the severity of your injury and its impact on your life. You may be entitled to a claim for:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Ongoing or corrective dental treatment
- Psychological distress
- Loss of earnings
- Travel costs and other related expenses
For example, claims involving permanent tooth loss or chronic infection can result in higher awards than those involving temporary discomfort.
At Marley Solicitors, we will assess your case in detail to estimate how much compensation you could receive and ensure that all your losses are taken into account.
No win, no fee dental negligence claims
We understand that pursuing legal action can feel overwhelming, especially after a painful dental experience. That is why we offer a no win, no fee service, meaning there is no financial risk to you in starting a claim. You only pay legal fees if your case is successful.
This allows you to seek justice without the added burden of upfront costs.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your claim?
Marley Solicitors has a strong track record in handling dental and medical negligence claims across the UK, including Newbury. We bring a compassionate approach to every case, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.
When you choose us, you can expect:
- A free initial consultation
- Honest advice from experienced professionals
- Clear communication throughout your case
- Strong advocacy to secure the compensation you deserve
We are proud to support individuals and families in Newbury who have been let down by poor dental care.
FAQs
Can I claim for a dental mistake in Newbury?
Yes, if you believe a dentist in Newbury provided substandard care that led to injury or financial loss, you may be able to claim compensation. Contact Marley Solicitors for free advice on your eligibility.
How much compensation can I get for dental negligence in Newbury?
Compensation varies depending on the nature and severity of the injury. Cases involving permanent damage or psychological trauma typically attract higher awards. We can give you a tailored estimate during your consultation.
Contact Marley Solicitors today
If you are based in Newbury and have experienced pain, complications or distress following a negligent root canal, we are here to help. Allow Marley Solicitors to offer you the legal assistance you require to hold accountable those in charge and obtain the restitution you are entitled to.
Contact us today for a free consultation. We will listen to your story, assess your case, and guide you through the next steps with clarity and care.
