Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Terri Ballester, 52, consulted dentist Brent Jarrett about a loose tooth and other dental issues. Jarrett took X-rays, which showed multiple infections in Ballester’s jaw. He recommended a full mouth extraction procedure involving placement of nine dental implants and a permanent overdenture. Ballester underwent the procedure. During the next five months, however, six of the implants required removal. She anticipates requiring removal of the remaining implants as well. Her past medical expenses totaled $21,500, and her future medical expenses are estimated to exceed $52,100.

Ballester filed suit against Jarrett and his practice, alleging that he had negligently performed the dental surgery and failed to provide proper postoperative care to Ballester, including sending her to a specialist. The plaintiff asserted that the defendant should have recommended more conservative treatment alternatives and that it was improper to place the dental implants while she was suffering from multiple active infections. Suit did not claim lost income.

The jury awarded approximately $1.17 million.

Citation: Ballester v. Jarrett, No. 2018-025369 (Fla. Cir. Ct. Broward Cty. Nov. 1, 2021).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ members Jarrett DeLuca and Francisco Viñas, both of Miami.