(USA, Massachusetts)

Hi everyone,

I recently saw a new dentist. This new dentist’s office had some kind of advanced panoramic X-ray machine that my old dentist didn’t have. They took some x-rays as part of the standard new patient exam, and found what turned out to be a piece of metal lodged in my rear gums. They took a second X-ray from a different angle to confirm, and it was indeed there.

I’ve only ever had one oral surgery, which was when I got my wisdom teeth removed about 8 years ago, so it has to be from that. (This was done by a specialized Oral Surgeon that I only ever saw for this, not by either of my regular dentists)

The new dentist tried to remove it that day in the office, but was unsuccessful, as it was deeper in the tissue than they thought.

I plan on getting it removed when I have time, as it’s a foreign body that was left inside of me after what should have been a very routine medical procedure.

What legal options do I have? I believe the original Oral Surgeon is still practicing; could I have a medical malpractice case on my hands? Would I be likely to get any financial compensation?

Any and all feedback is appreciated - thank you all very much!