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Dentist Fined Rs 2 Lakh Over Flawed Root Canal Treatment
18 Sep
Summary
- Dentist ordered to pay Rs 2 lakh for deficient dental service.
- Patient received inadequate explanation of root canal treatment and risks.
- Commission found a breach of medical practice for lack of informed consent.
A South-West Delhi consumer commission has mandated a dentist to pay Rs 2 lakh to a female patient, citing deficiency in service. The commission found the dentist failed to adequately explain the root canal treatment (RCT), including its inherent risks and available alternatives. Crucially, informed consent was not properly obtained before the procedure commenced on August 9, 2023.
The complainant, who paid Rs 1.10 lakh for RCT, crowns, and veneers, experienced ongoing pain and discomfort post-treatment. She later incurred Rs 1.38 lakh for corrective measures at another clinic. The commission highlighted the dentist's failure to provide documentary proof of the patient's agreement to the crown's shade and shape.
This judgment emphasizes that dentists must ensure patients are fully aware of procedures, potential complications, and alternatives. The lack of a signed informed consent form was deemed a significant breach of medical practice, leading to the substantial penalty. The directive to pay was issued on September 8, 2026.
