Professional Negligence Law Reporter
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Negligent Wisdom Tooth Extraction
September/October 2019Kvernhaugen v. Russo, No. 06-2017-CA-005936 (Fla. Cir. Ct. Broward Cnty. Feb. 15, 2019).
Jessica Kvernhaugen, 30, underwent a wisdom tooth extraction performed by dentist Charles Russo. During the procedure, Russo drilled through Kvernhaugen’s lingual plate and severed her lingual nerve. She now suffers from pain in her tongue and at the surgery site, necessitating pain medication. Additionally, she experiences loss of feeling and taste on the left side of her tongue and has some speech impairment.
Kvernhaugen sued Russo and his practice, alleging he used an improper technique when performing the wisdom tooth procedure. Suit did not claim lost income.
The jury awarded more than $1.7 million. The defense has appealed.
Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member Frank A. Ashton and Kevin Moore, both of Jacksonville Beach, Fla.
Plaintiff experts: Dale Miles, dental radiology, Fountain Hills, Ariz.; and Gary Wyatt, oral surgery, Newport Beach, Calif.
Defense expert: Salvatore Ruggerio, oral surgery, West Islip, N.Y.
