Dental negligence refers to substandard care by a dental professional that causes avoidable harm to a patient. This harm can take the form of physical injury, unnecessary pain, or a worsening condition that could have been prevented with proper care. Dental negligence can cause significant personal and financial distress in Enfield, a city that widely uses both NHS and private dental services.
Whether you received treatment at a local NHS clinic such as those operating under North Middlesex University Hospital NHS Trust, or visited a private practice in Southgate or Enfield Town, you may be entitled to compensation if your treatment fell below the accepted standard. Marley Solicitors provides legal support to residents across Enfield who have suffered as a result of poor dental care, ensuring that clients receive the compensation they deserve.
What is a dental negligence claim?
A dental negligence claim is a legal process in which a patient seeks financial compensation for harm caused by poor dental care. This harm may result from:
- A failure to diagnose or treat a condition
- Mistakes during treatment
- Use of improper or outdated techniques
- Failure to obtain informed consent
- Neglecting to provide appropriate follow-up care
To be successful, the claim must prove that the treatment received fell below an acceptable standard and that this directly caused injury or suffering. Dental negligence claims can be made against both NHS and private providers.
Can I claim dental negligence compensation in Enfield?
Yes. If your dental care in Enfield resulted in avoidable injury, illness, or long-term damage, you may be eligible to make a claim. Common grounds for dental negligence include:
- Extraction of the wrong tooth
- Delayed or incorrect diagnosis of oral conditions, such as infections or oral cancer
- Nerve damage from poorly performed procedures
- Faulty crowns, bridges, implants, or dentures
- Infections caused by poor hygiene or incorrect antibiotic use
- Damage to adjacent teeth or jawbone
- Lack of consent or failure to explain treatment risks
These cases are not limited to major surgeries. Even routine procedures such as fillings, check-ups, or scale-and-polish treatments can result in claims if performed negligently.
How do I start a dental negligence claim in Enfield?
If you believe you’ve suffered harm due to dental negligence, taking the following steps can help strengthen your case:
- Request your dental records
You are legally entitled to a copy of your records, which may show inconsistencies or missed diagnoses. - Make notes
Record your symptoms, pain levels, emotional distress, and financial costs. Include dates, clinic names, and practitioner details. - Seek a second opinion
A new dentist can help confirm whether your previous treatment was substandard and may outline the steps needed for correction. - Contact Marley Solicitors
Our team can assess your case quickly and advise whether you have a valid claim. We offer free consultations and may be able to act on a no win, no fee basis.
Local dental services in Enfield
Enfield has a range of NHS and private dental providers, including those near Chase Farm Hospital, Enfield Highway, and Palmers Green. Clinics such as:
- Enfield Dental Practice
- Forty Hill Dental Clinic
- Southbury Dental Surgery
- Green Lanes Dental Centre
Serve hundreds of patients each week. Unfortunately, even in well-rated practices, things can go wrong. A rushed diagnosis, outdated equipment, or insufficient hygiene measures can lead to serious outcomes such as tooth loss, nerve injury, or life-altering infections.
Dental errors in Enfield are not isolated incidents. With increasing demand for services, dentists are often pressured to see more patients in less time, which can compromise the quality of care.
Why choose Marley Solicitors for your dental negligence case?
At Marley Solicitors, we’ve supported many clients across North London in their dental negligence claims. We understand how overwhelming it can be to face the physical pain, emotional strain, and financial burden caused by poor dental care.
Our solicitors:
- Specialise in medical and dental negligence laws
- Understand the local healthcare system in Enfield
- Work sensitively and professionally with every client
- Offer guidance throughout the legal process
- We may offer no-win, no-fee funding for eligible claims
You do not need to face this situation alone. Whether your case involves NHS or private care, our team is here to provide clear, actionable legal advice tailored to your needs.
How much compensation could I receive?
Compensation for dental negligence varies depending on the circumstances, but may cover:
- Pain and suffering
- Corrective treatment costs
- Travel expenses
- Loss of income
- Emotional distress
- Impact on quality of life
The more severe the injury or the longer the recovery period, the higher the potential compensation. For example:
- Minor nerve damage or unnecessary tooth extraction: £3,000–£10,000
- Significant infection, multiple procedures, or psychological trauma: £10,000–£25,000
- Severe, permanent nerve damage or loss of multiple teeth: £25,000–£40,000+
Our solicitors can provide you with a more precise estimate after reviewing the facts, as each case is unique.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still file a claim if I provided consent for the treatment?
Yes. Consent to treatment does not excuse negligent care. If the treatment was poorly carried out or the risks were not properly explained, you may still have grounds for a claim.
What is the time limit for making a dental negligence claim?
You typically have three years from the date of the negligent treatment or the date you first became aware of the harm. However, exceptions apply for children or individuals lacking mental capacity.
Do I need to go to court?
Not always. Many dental negligence claims are settled through negotiation or mediation without the need for a court hearing.
Speak to Marley Solicitors about your dental negligence claim in Enfield
If you’ve suffered due to substandard dental care in Enfield, whether at a private practice or an NHS clinic, you may be entitled to compensation. Marley Solicitors is here to help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and build a strong legal case.
Our team offers free initial consultations, and in many cases, we can represent you on a no win, no fee basis. We handle each claim with care, professionalism, and a clear focus on results.
Get in touch with Marley Solicitors today to start your dental negligence claim in Enfield and take the first step toward justice.
