Yes, you can claim compensation in the UK if you suffer dental damage due to someone else’s negligence—such as in a road traffic accident, workplace injury, medical negligence, or public liability incident. Payouts depend on the severity, pain, cosmetic impact, and any long-term dental treatment required.
Losing or damaging a tooth isn’t just about looks. It can lead to ongoing pain, difficulty eating, speaking problems, and the emotional distress of feeling self-conscious. Whether it happens in a road traffic collision, due to poor dental treatment, or an accident at work, you may be entitled to compensation. In the UK, personal injury law covers dental damage, and you have the right to pursue a claim if someone else is at fault.
Let’s break down your rights, how much you could claim, and what steps to take.
When Can You Claim Compensation for Tooth Damage?
To make a successful claim, you need to show that another party was negligent or failed in their duty of care. Some common scenarios include:
🚗 Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs)
If your face hits the steering wheel, dashboard or airbag in a crash, broken or knocked-out teeth can result. These injuries are common in high-impact collisions or where seatbelts or airbags malfunction.
🏥 Medical or Dental Negligence
Poorly performed dental work, wrong tooth extraction, or delayed treatment of infections can cause long-term dental issues. NHS and private practitioners are both liable under UK medical negligence law.
🏗️ Workplace Accidents
Falls, machinery mishaps or lack of protective gear can lead to facial injuries, including damaged teeth. Employers are legally required under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to maintain a safe working environment.
🏚️ Public Liability Accidents
Slips, trips, or falls in public places (e.g. shops, pavements, or restaurants) can result in chipped or lost teeth. Councils and businesses have a duty to keep public areas safe.
If any of the above apply to you, you may be able to start a claim.
How Much Compensation Can You Claim?
Compensation amounts depend on the severity of the injury, number of teeth affected, long-term pain, and cosmetic impact. According to the Judicial College Guidelines, typical payouts include:
| Injury Type | Estimated Compensation Range |
|---|---|
| Loss of several front teeth | £8,000 – £11,410 |
| Loss of one front tooth | £2,200 – £3,950 |
| Loss or serious damage to back teeth (per tooth) | £1,090 – £1,710 |
| Chronic tooth pain or sensitivity | £4,000 – £8,000 |
Note: You can also claim for special damages, including:
- Dental repair costs (crowns, implants)
- Loss of earnings
- Emotional trauma
- Travel to medical appointments
How to Start Your Dental Injury Compensation Claim
If you think you have a valid claim, here’s what you should do:
1. Seek Medical or Dental Treatment
Always get treatment first. A medical report or dental record will act as key evidence in your claim.
2. Gather Evidence
Photos of the injury, witness statements, accident reports, and dental bills all support your case.
3. Report the Incident
If the injury happened at work, report it to your employer. If it occurred in public, inform the relevant authority or business.
4. Contact a Solicitor
Time limits apply – usually 3 years from the date of the injury – so don’t delay. National Claims can link you with expert solicitors who work on a no win, no fee basis.
People Also Ask
Q1. Can I sue the NHS for a broken tooth?
Yes, if the NHS dentist failed in their duty of care, such as extracting the wrong tooth or missing an infection. You can pursue a dental negligence claim against the NHS.
Q2. What if I chipped a tooth in a restaurant?
If your injury was caused by poor flooring, food contamination or broken furniture, you may have a public liability claim against the restaurant.
Q3. Is it worth claiming for one lost tooth?
Absolutely. Even one front tooth can cause long-term cosmetic and speech problems, and treatment costs can run into thousands of pounds.
Q4. How long does a dental injury claim take?
Most claims are settled within 6–12 months, depending on the complexity and whether the other party accepts liability.
Q5. What evidence do I need for a dental injury claim?
You’ll need a dental report, treatment records, photographs of the injury, receipts for expenses, and any accident reports or witness statements.
Can You Claim for Psychological Stress After a Dental Injury?
Yes. Dental injuries can have a serious emotional and psychological impact, especially when it affects your smile, speech or confidence. This is known as psychological stress, and it can be included in your compensation amount. Make sure to discuss these effects with your solicitor so they’re documented in your claim.
Why Legal Help Makes a Big Difference
Navigating a dental injury claim alone can be stressful and complicated. Legal professionals can:
- Identify who’s liable
- Handle paperwork and deadlines
- Maximise your payout
- Ensure you claim for both physical and emotional trauma
Conclusion
Suffering a dental injury can be painful, expensive, and emotionally draining—but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Whether you lost a tooth in a car accident, chipped one in a workplace mishap, or experienced negligent dental care, you may be entitled to compensation.
Don’t wait. The sooner you start the process, the better your chances of getting the justice and financial support you deserve.
👉 Contact National Claims today to speak with experienced solicitors who are ready to help you make a successful dental injury compensation claim.
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