Patient left in pain by poor dental care

What happened

In spring 2013, Mr L damaged a tooth and asked for an appointment to see the dentist. A dentist saw him the following month. The dentist took X‑rays and thought Mr L had gingivitis (inflamed gums). He prescribed antibiotics and made a note to review Mr L when the course was complete. Mr L continued to experience pain. He saw another dentist in early summer. The second dentist took out one of his teeth. After this Mr L had no more pain.

What we found

The care Mr L received at his appointment in spring 2013 was inadequate. Relevant guidance says it is not appropriate to treat gingivitis or a broken tooth by prescribing antibiotics alone. If Mr L had received effective treatment at the first appointment, his dental problem would have been dealt with sooner and he would not have been left in pain for so long.

Putting it right

The organisation that provides dental care at the prison apologised to Mr L for the failings in his care and paid him £200 in compensation for the avoidable pain he experienced.