12-year-old to have corrective surgery after braces fitted by untrained dentist

A recent investigation has unveiled a disturbing case where a 12-year-old girl suffered extensive damage due to braces improperly fitted by an untrained dentist.

The incident which occurred in 2014 has led to a series of complications necessitating corrective surgery.

Initially, the dentist, who was not qualified as an orthodontist, placed braces on the girl, only to have them removed later and replaced with aligners by 2016, under the impression that the treatment was completed. However, three years later, her mother sought a second opinion from a specialist orthodontist due to dissatisfaction with the previous treatment.

Upon examination the orthodontist discovered severe root resorption in eight of the girl’s teeth, along with two teeth significantly affected by short roots. The recommended course of action included upper and lower braces along with jaw advancement surgery.

The upset mother described her distress to state media, revealing that she was misled by the dentist, who either claimed to be an orthodontist or allowed her to believe so. She said she would not have consented to such extensive dental work had she been aware of the dentist’s lack of qualifications.

The investigation also found several breaches of the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights. The dentist failed to refer the girl to a specialist initially, undertook treatment beyond his expertise, and maintained inadequate patient records. These lapses hindered both the investigation and subsequent treatment by other dental practitioners.

Additionally, the informed consent process was poor, with documentation lacking and the discussion occurring hastily on the day of brace fitting, depriving the girl and her mother of sufficient time to consider the treatment and its risks.

Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Dr. Vanessa Caldwell concluded the investigation, recommending the dentist issue a written apology.

Image credit: Enis Yavuz