Legal Question in Medical Malpractice in Georgia
In July 2009 my 16 yr old had her wisdom teeth removed. After 3 weeks she still had pain and couldn't open her mouth very far. The doctor put her on anti-inflammatory meds. 2 weeks later still no better and he then informed us that many girls have this problem and it was probably hormonal! We saw her regular dentist who put her on a series of steroids and ordered a mouth guard. A few weeks with no relief the dentist sent us to a TMJ specialist. He sent her to a physical therapist specializing in TMJ problems (only two in Atlanta area). She saw him twice a week for a couple months (asked her not to use the mouth guard or her retainers) and he consulted with the other PT and after no change sent us back to the TMJ specialist. He ordered and MRI and found that both discs are dislocated and referred us to an oral surgeon specializing in TMJ problems (appt tomorrow) and commented that she is probably looking at surgery to correct. Interestingly both Oral Surgeons and the TMJ specialist are part of the same practice. (frustrated that original oral surgeon didn't think to refer us to TMJ specialist!). I cannot locate the consent form we initially signed so this may be a potential complication. We've now had two years of insurance deductibles, plus all the PT and specialist copays, as well as her teeth shifting after years of braces because of not being able to wear her retainer, etc. but that is not my biggest concern. She is a musician (bassoon and sax) and is planning to major or minor in performance in college. This has been affecting her ability to play/practice and has probably taken any scholarship chances away from her. Is this something we should consider legal action against?
1 Answer from Attorneys
Absolutely you should consider legal action. I handle a good number of these cases and would be happy to discuss yours with you.