Orthodontics Expert Discusses Inappropriate Treatment for Jaw Misalignment

Case Overview

This case involves a middle-aged patient in Massachusetts who was referred to the defendant orthodontist for treatment of a gap between his front teeth that he wanted to close. At his initial orthodontic consultation, the orthodontist noted that the patient had a “crooked smile,” or misalignment of his upper and lower jaw. The patient had not noticed this before, and this was not the reason for him seeking orthodontic treatment. The defendant orthodontist convinced him that he could close the gap between his front teeth, as well as level out his smile through the use of orthodontic implants anchored directly into his bone. The implants were placed, and remained in the patient’s jaw bones for several years before a review of the treatment was initiated by the orthodontist. The orthodontist, noting the patient’s dissatisfaction with the results of the initial treatment, devised a non-surgical revision procedure utilizing splint therapy. The patient underwent this therapy for a year before he sought treatment from another orthodontist in response to lackluster results and increasing pain. The patient eventually underwent surgical treatment for his jaw misalignment, which was allegedly the most appropriate treatment from the outset of care.