Defective Dental Implants Puncture Patient’s Mouth

This case involves an elderly female patient who had implants placed in her jaw. When the implants were placed, a gap was found in the manufactured gum and the dentist put acrylic in to fill the gap. During the first fitting, the posts got stuck and the dentist used a significant amount of force to release the implants. In the months following the implant placement, the patient found it difficult and painful to remove the dentures. About 7 months after the implants were placed, they fell out while the patient was eating. She bit into a sandwich and the implant came out, puncturing her upper lip. The dentist put in a temporary acrylic fix which deteriorated in weeks. The patient was subsequently limited to a soft food diet.

Question(s) For Expert Witness

1. Please describe your background in dentistry.

2. How long have you been practicing in this capacity?

3. Do you routinely treat patients like the one described above?

Expert Witness Response E-004499

I have been in clinical practice for 30+ years and all of the disciplines involved in the treatment of this patient are within my expertise. As with any dental procedure, there are risks and benefits. Approximately 5% of implants fail, however, they can usually be replaced. Certain factors have an impact on the success of the implants including a smoking history, dental hygiene, and occlusion (bite). I have lectured on this topic.

Expert Bio:

This highly qualified expert received his DMD from a southern university and established a partnership in a dental practice in 1988. He is a member of the Academy of Sports Dentistry and the American Association of Dental Legal Consultants. He is a former dental associate at a large dental center and previously served as a dental partner at a family dentistry practice. He has been an associate professor at a regional college of dental medicine for 16 years in the departments of restorative dentistry and oral surgery. This expert currently works as an adjunct clinician at a regional private practice.