We understand that deciding which restorative option is the best for you is often a matter of cost and convenience, but it is important that you are aware of the various options and understand the possible risks. Those who undergo cosmetic dentistry do so to improve the overall appearance of their teeth, and it can be upsetting and even painful if it has failed. If your failed cosmetic dentistry procedure has resulted in injury, you may be eligible to make a claim for dental negligence. 

Dental Bonding 

It isn’t uncommon for our teeth to have gaps in, discolouration, get chipped or even broken. This doesn’t necessarily mean that any teeth need to be replaced as dental bonding. This procedure involves a composite resin being applied to the tooth and provides a quick, inexpensive, and less invasive fix. However, there are disadvantages and risks of dental bonding that you would also need to consider. 

Your natural tooth enamel is much stronger than the material used in teeth bonding, so is not as durable. Consequently, bonding only lasts for around 5-10 years. The material used in composite bonding is susceptible to staining and can chip or fall off and may need to be replaced sooner.

If the following complications occur during or after your dental bonding procedure, you may be able to make a claim:

• You experience prolonged pain following the procedure
• Poor application of the bonding material results in the filling being chipped or falling off
• The shade or colour of the bonding is incorrect
• Bonding is placed on the wrong tooth
• You have experienced an allergic reaction to the materials used

Dental Veneers

Those who get dental veneers usually do so to make their smile look as uniform and perfect as possible. The procedure involves the dentist removing a thin layer of enamel from the original teeth and replacing it with porcelain. 

As this is a more invasive procedure than dental bonding, the possible risks are far more detrimental. If you have experienced any of the following because of dental veneers you may be entitled to make a claim:

Infection: In some cases, dentists can mistakenly remove more enamel than necessary which increases the risk of infection. If a tooth does become infected, root canal or extraction of the tooth may be necessary. 

Poorly Fitted Veneers: If veneers are not fitted properly, or do not fit the original teeth, not only is the cosmetic outcome poor, but this can cause the veneers to chip or break, therefore increasing the risk of injury.

Damaged Veneers: The material veneers can easily chip or break during or after the treatment. If the dentist does not fix this, the veneer is left sharp and can result in injury. 

The client said: ‘Honestly Hannah I couldn’t have done this without you, your patience kindness and work you put in to see this through. Hopefully I never need to use solicitors again but if I do then I definitely know where to come.’

How can we help?

Many people who have cosmetic dental treatment find that the results are not as promised.  If you believe the standard of care that you received surrounding your cosmetic treatment fell below that of a reasonable standard, you may be eligible to make a clinical negligence claim.

You can also complete an online enquiry form. One of the Wollens team will contact you as soon as they are available.