If you have ever had a tooth extraction or any major teeth operations, you will know just how sensitive and painful that area can be. Unfortunately many people also have accident in which they damage their teeth and gums and this can in some circumstances lead to a claim for compensation.

Teeth can be damaged in a variety of ways and treatment can be extensive. Whilst some damage can be repaired by the use of veneers in the less serious cases, others require tooth extraction, root treatments and implants. The costs of these can be very expensive.

Cosmetically many of us rely on our teeth to make that all important first impression, but teeth are also necessary for eating and any damage to them can make eating and moving the mouth extremely painful. Quite often the treatment is also painful and in the more serious cases has to take place over a number of sessions, increasing both the pain and anxiety.

How can damage to teeth occur?

• In slipping, tripping or falling cases. This can often be on the pavement or road but can occur in the workplace or public buildings such as shops. Falling onto the face can involve damage to the teeth and often the jaw and nose. Hazards such as potholes in the pavement can lead to a claim against the council. Falling over objects left on the floor at work, could mean a claim against an employer. Slipping on wet floors is another common cause. If the floor is wet and you have not been warned, then it may be possible to claim.
• Teeth injuries are often caused as a result of an assault and if the matter has been properly recorded by the police, you may be able to make a claim to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority.
• Road traffic accidents are another common factor in tooth related injuries. Hitting your face on the steering wheel, or being hit by objects loose in the car, can lead to a claim if the accident wasn’t your fault.
• Sporting accidents are another common cause. Whilst you have to take care for your own safety, participants in sport owe duties to each other and damage caused because of a dangerous challenge or deliberately violent conduct could lead to a claim.

What sort of compensation can you expect?

Every claim is different and the following are only estimates.

Generally there will have been a course of treatment as a result of the initial injury. Any difficulty with eating will increase the award and there may be other injuries such as jaw damage as well to take into account.

• Loss of or serious damage to several front teeth £5600-£7250
• Loss of or serious damage to two front teeth £2750-£4840
• Loss of or serious damage to one front tooth £1400-£2500
• Loss of or serious damage to back teeth; per tooth £700-£1100

In addition the costs of treatment will also be given together with any loss of earnings as a result of the initial injury and visits to the dentist.

Hopefully you will never be involved in an accident damaging your teeth, but if you are, you should seek specialist legal advice as soon as possible as you may be able to make a claim.