DENTAL IMPLANT NEGLIGENE
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Dental Implant Negligence in Florida
Dental implants are one of the most popular procedures in modern dentistry. They restore smiles, improve chewing ability, and often last a lifetime when performed correctly. But when implants are placed incorrectly—or when dentists fail to follow proper standards of care—patients suffer devastating injuries.
At Loutos Law, we represent patients across Florida harmed by dental implant negligence. From permanent nerve damage to failed implants requiring multiple revision surgeries, we fight to hold negligent dental providers accountable.
What Is Dental Implant Negligence?
Dental implant negligence occurs when a dentist or oral surgeon fails to provide treatment that meets the accepted standard of care, and the patient is harmed as a result.
Not all implant failures are malpractice—sometimes implants fail for reasons beyond anyone’s control. But if a failure was caused by negligence, poor technique, or lack of proper planning, you may have a claim.
Common Types of Dental Implant Malpractice Cases
01
Improper Implant Placement
Implants must be carefully positioned. When placed incorrectly, they can:
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Damage nearby nerves
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Affect neighboring teeth
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Cause pain, numbness, or tingling
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Lead to implant instability or loosening
02
Nerve Damage
One of the most serious risks of implant surgery is nerve injury. Improper drilling or placement too close to nerves can cause:
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Permanent numbness in the lips, chin, or tongue
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Chronic pain (neuropathy)
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Difficulty eating, speaking, or smiling normally
03
Use of Wrong Implant Size or Type
Dentists must select the proper implant for each patient’s jawbone and oral structure. Using the wrong size or type can cause failure or the need for revision surgery.
04
Lack of Bone Grafting or Pre-Surgical Planning
Some patients need bone grafting before implants can be placed. Skipping this step or failing to conduct adequate imaging increases the risk of implant failure.
05
Drilling Into Sinus Cavities or Nerves
In the upper jaw, improper placement can puncture the sinus cavity. In the lower jaw, drilling too deep can sever major nerves. Both are preventable with proper imaging and planning.
06
Infections After Implant Surgery
Failure to maintain sterile technique or provide antibiotics can lead to:
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Gum infections
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Peri-implantitis (inflammation around the implant)
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Sepsis in severe cases
07
Failure to Recognize Implant Failure Early
Even when implants begin to fail, dentists must act quickly. Ignoring loosening, pain, or infection may cause more serious complications.
08
Lack of Informed Consent
Patients have a right to know the risks of implant surgery. Failure to disclose risks or alternatives may itself be negligence.
Why Dental Implant Negligence Happens
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Inadequate training – Some general dentists perform implants without proper surgical training.
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Poor planning – Not using CT scans or bone density tests before surgery.
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Rushed procedures – Dentists who overbook patients or rush through surgeries.
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​Failure to refer – Some cases require specialists (oral surgeons or periodontists). When general dentists attempt them anyway, mistakes happen.
Consequences of Dental Implant Negligence
When dental implant negligence occurs, patients may face:
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Permanent nerve damage
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Chronic pain
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Facial numbness or disfigurement
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Bone loss in the jaw
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Difficulty eating or speaking
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Multiple revision surgeries
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Emotional distress and loss of confidence
Real-World Examples of Dental Implant Negligence
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A patient suffers permanent numbness in the lower lip after a dentist drilled into the mandibular nerve.
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An implant loosens and fails because the dentist skipped necessary bone grafting.
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A patient develops a severe infection after the dentist failed to sterilize instruments properly.
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An implant punctures the sinus cavity, causing chronic sinus infections and the need for corrective surgery.
Florida Law and Dental Implant Malpractice
In Florida, dental implant negligence falls under Chapter 766 of the Florida Statutes governing medical malpractice. To win a claim, you must prove:
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The dentist or oral surgeon owed you a duty of care.
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They breached the accepted standard of dental care.
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The breach caused harm (such as nerve damage or implant failure).
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You suffered damages as a result.
These cases often require expert testimony from dental and medical professionals to prove negligence.
Damages Available in Dental Implant Negligence Cases
Victims of dental implant malpractice in Florida may recover compensation for:
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Corrective surgeries and medical bills
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Lost income and reduced earning capacity
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Pain and suffering
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Cost of prosthetics or replacement implants
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Emotional distress
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Wrongful death damages in rare fatal cases (such as sepsis from infection)
How Loutos Law Helps Dental Implant Malpractice Victims
At Loutos Law, we have the resources and experience to take on complex dental malpractice claims. We have gone up against major healthcare providers and dental organizations—and won.
We help clients by:
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Reviewing dental and surgical records for errors
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Working with dental experts to prove negligence
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Litigating aggressively against dentists, oral surgeons, and insurers
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Supporting clients personally through recovery and legal proceedings
Frequently Asked Questions
About Dental Implant Malpractice in Florida
LOUTOS LAW
Protects Dental Implant Malpractice Victims Across Florida
Dental implants can change lives for the better—but when dentists cut corners or act negligently, the results are devastating. At Loutos Law, we represent victims of dental implant negligence across Florida, from Fort Pierce and the Treasure Coast to Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Tampa, and beyond.
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If you or a loved one were harmed by a dental implant error, contact Loutos Law today for a free consultation. We’ll hold negligent dental providers accountable and fight for the justice you deserve.