Undiagnosed and untreated pre-malignant cysts or lesions in the mouth can become malignant and develop into more serious health problems. Patients with painful sores, lumps, or ulcers in their mouth can visit the dentist for early detection and treatment of dental tumors. Dentists who fail to diagnose and treat such problems can be held liable for dental negligence, a claim that can be filed by patients through the help of a New York attorney.
Dental tumors, lesions, and cysts can come in many shapes and forms. While there are benign growths that merely cause some discomfort and penetrate below the surface layer of tissue, others can become malignant, spread to other parts of the body, and cause death if left untreated. Aside from causing pain and discomfort, dental lesions and sores are often the earliest symptoms of oral cancer. In New York City alone, an estimated 2,400 people have been diagnosed with cancer of the oral cavity and pharynx from 2004 to 2009. Regular visits to the dentist and a thorough inspection of the oral cavity can detect the presence of pre-malignant lesions.
Because of the relative ease of detecting most dental tumors, dentists who choose not to treat or even mention this type of serious oral condition can be held liable for passive negligence. A patient should be able to trust that the dentist’s initial diagnosis is correct, and the need for a second opinion only appears when pain and symptoms persist.
Curing a dental tumor can be costly, particularly if it is malignant. Patients may undergo numerous costly procedures, from surgery to chemotherapy. Standard health plans may not be enough to pay for all the required health and dental requirements.
To ease the financial and emotional burden of victims of undiagnosed dental tumors in New York, an attorney who specializes in dental malpractice can help clients obtain the justice and compensation they deserve.
For more information, contact our law firm of Albert W. Chianese & Associates or call (516) 614-6516.