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Unlike most firms, Good & Murray Smith LLP are disputes specialists. It is all we do. We are able to draw on more than a century of experience in disputes to ensure the best results for our clients. Since our founding in 1895, we have built a strong reputation throughout Ireland for providing comprehensive and strategic advice in negligence claims.
We understand that a dental injury can have a profound impact, both physically and emotionally. Our dedicated solicitors work on your behalf, managing the entire claims process—from gathering essential medical records to engaging with expert witnesses and insurers—so that you can focus on your recovery.
Dental negligence arises when a dentist, orthodontist, dental technician, or other dental professional fails to meet the standard of care required of them, causing injury, pain, infection, or disfigurement. In Ireland, dentists are legally recognised medical practitioners and must uphold the highest standards in diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare.
With over a century of legal practice under our belt, we are a trusted name in litigation across Ireland. Our solicitors handle a broad spectrum of dental and medical negligence claims, giving us the insight and confidence to deliver results.
We recognise that dental negligence can significantly disrupt your life. Our priority is to achieve practical, commercial outcomes in the shortest possible timeframe, ensuring you get the support and compensation you deserve.
You can expect honest assessments, open communication, and a rigorous approach to safeguarding your interests from the very outset.
Since 1895, we have been widely recognised for our work in professional negligence law. Our boutique structure ensures every client receives personal attention backed by a wealth of litigation experience.
Contact us to discuss the specifics of your situation in confidence. We will advise on the viability of your claim and outline the next steps.
Our team works to obtain all relevant dental charts, X-rays, treatment records, and expert medical opinions. These crucial details establish how your treatment fell below acceptable standards.
Once negligence is established, we prepare a formal letter of claim addressed to the dental professional(s) or the relevant insurance provider. This step often sets the groundwork for negotiations or a settlement.
Many claims can be settled out of court. A settlement usually reflects any legal risks involved and aims to address both immediate and long-term needs arising from the negligence. However, if the other side disputes liability or the proposed settlement, we are fully prepared to proceed to litigation to secure a just outcome.
Compensation amounts in dental negligence claims usually include:
Under Irish law, you generally have two years less one day from the date of the incident—or from the date you became aware (or should reasonably have become aware) of the negligence—to bring a claim. Where a child (a minor) is involved, a claim can typically be brought within two years following their 18th birthday. Given these statutory deadlines, we recommend contacting a solicitor promptly to safeguard your rights.
Where a child suffers injury due to dental negligence—be it an incorrectly fitted brace, misdiagnosis of a childhood dental condition, or another error—the claims process is slightly different from that of an adult.
A minor may bring a claim within two years of turning 18. Throughout this process, our specialist team can guide parents or guardians through obtaining expert reports, medical notes, and all required evidence to build a robust case.
The duration varies, depending on factors like the complexity of the case, the availability of medical records, and whether the matter proceeds to court. We strive to secure settlements efficiently while protecting your best interests.
Typically, the dentist or dental professional will have insurance to cover negligence claims. Our team negotiates directly with these insurers to seek fair compensation.
Additional procedures often feature in special damages. We factor in these costs—both present and future—to ensure a comprehensive settlement.
Yes. If you have suffered injury or harm as a result of substandard dental care (e.g., negligent work, misdiagnosis, incorrect extraction, or failure to diagnose), you may be able to pursue a dental negligence claim for compensation. Generally, you must prove that the dentist or dental professional owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused you harm or loss.
A dentist may be held responsible for a failed filling if they provided care below the standard expected of a reasonably competent dental practitioner. Issues such as using an inappropriate procedure, failing to follow proper hygiene, or not informing you of the correct course of treatment could indicate negligence. However, not all failed fillings automatically constitute negligence; fillings can fail for a variety of reasons, including normal wear and tear.
Typical dental malpractice or negligence claims include:
Yes. Under Irish law, you can sue a dentist if you believe you have suffered injury or loss due to their negligent treatment or breach of professional duty. If you decide to proceed with legal action, it is generally advisable to consult a specialist dental negligence solicitor, as these claims often require detailed medical records, expert opinions, and a clear understanding of the legal process.
If a dentist’s care falls below an acceptable standard and causes harm, you may be entitled to:
Compensation and damages are usually paid by the dentist’s insurer. In many cases, your solicitor will negotiate with the dentist’s insurer on your behalf. If an agreement cannot be reached, the matter may proceed to court.
If a crown fails due to negligent work—for example, poor fitting, incorrect materials, or inadequate aftercare—you may be able to claim special damages to cover the cost of remedial treatment and replacement.
Typically, the dentist’s professional indemnity insurance (or the insurance of whichever dental professional was responsible) will cover these costs if negligence is proven. If the failure was unrelated to negligence (e.g., typical wear and tear over many years), you may have to cover the costs yourself.
Compensation for damage, loss, or harm to teeth (including cosmetic implications) will vary significantly. Influencing factors include how many teeth were affected, the complexity of corrective treatment, and the overall impact on your daily life and wellbeing.
Cases involving permanent tooth loss or major aesthetic changes tend to attract higher awards.
If nerve damage occurs due to negligent dental treatment (e.g., an incorrectly administered anaesthetic, botched extraction, or poorly placed implant), compensation is often higher, reflecting the potentially long-term or permanent nature of nerve injury.
At Good & Murray Smith LLP, we combine over 100 years of dispute resolution experience with a sensitive, results-oriented approach to dental negligence claims. From initial consultation to final settlement, we are committed to protecting your rights and helping you move forward with confidence. Contact us to get started with your dental negligence claim.
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If you or a loved one has suffered due to medical negligence, don’t delay. Good & Murray Smith LLP is here to support you. Contact us to arrange a consultation to review your case and guide you through the next steps.
