Forensic interpretation of the maxillary tuberosity fracture caused by tooth extraction

Abstract

Background. Maxillary tuberosity during teeth extraction can occur in dental practice. The aim of this paper was to present a case of the maxillary tuberosity fracture occurred during tooth extraction, which was the subject of the forensic expertise. Case report. The maxillary tuberosity fracture created during the extraction of the upper molar was neither timely nor adequately managed by the doctor who started extraction. After the treatment at the specialist institution, the patient sued the doctor for the criminal offense of negligent treatment. The task of the expert was to give a professional answer to the question whether the doctor, who caused a maxillary tuberosity fracture during the tooth extraction, acted negligently and applied inadequate treatment. Conclusion. The maxillary tuberosity fracture during molar extraction may be its complication. If it is diagnosed promptly, immediately and adequately managed, there is no possibility for negligence action.

Keywords

• tooth extraction
• maxillary fractures
• treatment outcome
• intraoperative complications
• forensic dentistry