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Contracting strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure: What you should know

Writer's picture: Adam FunkAdam Funk

Strep bacteria are a common type of bacteria that can live in the mouth. They can cause a variety of infections, including strep throat, scarlet fever, and pneumonia.

Strep bacteria can also be transmitted through dental procedures. This can happen if the dentist does not follow proper sterilization procedures or if the patient has an open wound in their mouth.

If you contract a strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • Fever

  • Sore throat

  • Headache

  • Swollen lymph nodes

  • Body aches

  • Chills

  • White patches on the tonsils

If you experience any of these symptoms after a dental procedure, it is important to see a doctor right away.

How to prevent strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure

There are a few things you can do to help prevent strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure:

  • Choose a dentist who follows proper sterilization procedures.

  • Tell your dentist about any open wounds in your mouth.

  • Ask your dentist about antibiotic prophylaxis if you are at high risk of strep bacterial infection.

What to do if you contract strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure

If you contract strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics. You will also need to rest and drink plenty of fluids.

In some cases, strep bacterial infection can lead to serious complications, such as rheumatic fever and kidney disease. If you have any concerns about your strep bacterial infection, be sure to talk to your doctor.

Can you sue for contracting strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure?

Yes, you may be able to sue for contracting strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure if your dentist was negligent. Negligence is a legal term that means that the dentist did not provide the standard of care that is expected of a reasonable dentist.

To prove negligence, you will need to show that:

  • The dentist had a duty to care for you.

  • The dentist breached that duty.

  • The breach of duty caused your strep bacterial infection.

  • You suffered damages as a result of your strep bacterial infection.

If you can prove all of these elements, you may be able to recover damages from your dentist. Damages can include compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

If you think you may have contracted strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure, it is important to talk to a personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and can represent you in a lawsuit against your dentist.

Here are some additional tips for pursuing a lawsuit against your dentist for contracting strep bacterial infection from a dental procedure:

  • Keep track of all of your medical records and bills.

  • Document all of your symptoms and treatment.

  • Get statements from witnesses who can corroborate your story.

  • Contact a personal injury lawyer who has experience handling dental malpractice cases.

A personal injury lawyer can help you build a strong case and get the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

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