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Delhi Woman Wins Rs 2 Lakh for Inadequate Dental Care
Developing
In Short: A Delhi consumer commission ordered a dentist to pay Rs 2 lakh to a woman who claimed he failed to explain root canal risks and obtain informed consent.
A Delhi woman has won a Rs 2 lakh compensation from a dentist for alleged deficiencies in dental treatment and lack of informed consent, according to a ruling by the South-West District Consumer Commission.
The woman and her husband, also a doctor, visited the dentist on August 9, 2023, seeking treatment for oral pain. She alleged that the dentist did not adequately explain the risks and alternatives of root canal treatment (RCT) and dental crowns before proceeding with the procedure.
The dentist argued that he had thoroughly discussed the treatment options with the couple and obtained their consent. However, the commission found that the dentist had not provided an informed consent form signed by the woman, indicating a breach of medical practice.
The commission noted that the dentist failed to explain the details of the RCT procedure and its associated risks, and did not document the woman's agreement on the shade and shape of the crowns.
In its September 8 order, the commission directed the dentist to pay Rs 2 lakh to the woman, inclusive of litigation costs, for not obtaining informed consent and failing to explain the treatment properly.
The woman had paid Rs 1.10 lakh for the RCT, crowns, and veneers but later sought corrective treatment at another clinic due to ongoing pain and discomfort. She also alleged that the dentist was disrespectful and made personal remarks about her complexion.
What's still developing
- Aggrieved, she moved the commission alleging deficiency in service and negligence on the part of the said dentist.
- The dentist argued that both filling and RCT followed by crowns were discussed in detail with the complainant and her husband, who, after taking time, decided to undertake the treatment and fixation of the crowns.
- He further argued that the complainant was informed several times regarding the risks, benefits, alternatives, and potential complications regarding dental crowns, removal of original tooth structure and RCT and that crown cutting was done during the second sitting of the RCT treatment.
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Sources
- The Indian Expresslink