Besides routine cleanings and checkups, many people go to the dentist for treatment of tooth problems as well as elective procedures, such as dentures. Whatever the reason, patients trust the dental facility is properly licensed and its physicians properly trained in the use of anesthetics during invasion procedures. Unfortunately, that is not always the case, as made evident in the tragic deaths of two dental patients in another state due to anesthetic issues.
The deaths
Tragically, two people have died within a year’s time as the result of alleged medical negligence. More specially, one patient died because of complications that arose from the administration of anesthetics when she was getting dentures, and another died due to injuries he sustained when his mouth caught on fire during laser oral surgery. Both victims were under the care of the same anesthetist.
The anesthetist was a member of a mobile anesthesia company. He performed at least one of the procedures at a dental office that did not have the proper licensing to perform procedures under sedation. The report also states the anesthetist himself did not have the 1304 anesthesia permit required.
The lawsuits
Each of the incidents happened in Arizona, and the surviving family members of the deceased patients, the daughter of one and the wife of the other, have filed suit against the anesthetist for medical malpractice. Surprisingly, the Arizona State Board of Nursing concluded the anesthetist did not commit any sort of professional misconduct and actually praised the anesthetist for his quick action in treating the mouth burn victim (who ultimately passed away days later). Only time will tell how the case will play out, but anyone who has suffered serious injury or worse at the hands of a medical or dental care provider should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney for advice and counsel concerning their options for obtaining compensation.