I have to be especially conscious to tell this story in a fair and balanced way. The outcome for me was not good at the time, what happened to me was back in 2021 but equally I have forgiven the practise for my experience. (They did say sorry whilst finding against my complaint)

I went to Dr. Jai Mistry on a recommendation. Someone I really trust suggested I have a consultation, following a problem with my NHS dentist and when I first met Dr. Jai I was not alerted to anything out of the ordinary.

I’ve spent quite a lot of time at the dentist and always get my checks/exams and hygiene appointments because of periodontal problems in the past I have to manage.

He was professional and friendly when I finally got in to see him although very late, his excuse a tricky root canal he had to finish, justified by he would do the same if it were me.

We put a treatment plan together, I signed up for regular hygiene and exams, a monthly direct debit to cover my annual maintenance requirements and a quote around £3000 for what needed doing to get my mouth healthy.

I am not going to go into the ins and outs of what happened or who was to blame but the long and short of it was I commenced treatment in no pain and ended up with a large swelling and my face and neck swelled up to twice it’s original size. My first treatment, a root canal, had failed, I was in the chair for over an hour before the doctor told me he was unable to

complete my treatment and suggested referring me elsewhere, a root canel specialist in Loughborough. I was billed almost £1000. That evening I lay awake in bed. I could still feel the anaesthetic in my feet.

After 2 days of excruciating pain I contacted the practise. The doctor was away on a further education course so couldn’t speak to me. I asked for pain relief. The treatment coordinator suggested Paracetamol. For 11 days I didn’t sleep, I struggled with the pain. The doctor never called me. I did return to the practise, as my GP wouldn’t see me for a problem caused by a dental appointment but by this stage I was in so much agony and distress I couldn’t even let Dr. Mistry anywhere near me. We actually argued, disagreeing about the chain of events. He prescribed antibiotics, which I didn’t take. I wasn’t convinced I needed them. Our relationship had broken down. I didn’t believe him anymore. I thought the extended time in the chair had done the damage. I was closed off. All he could suggest I go through the practise complaints procedure.

I understand health professionals are not miracle workers. They can only do their best. The problem for me was exacerbated by a series of other issues which degraded my confidence so when something really bad happened, the practise being in complete denial, made things much worse for me.

I don’t think what happened to me is typical, but I do believe sometimes professional individuals do have to accept some responsibility when things go wrong.

After my experience I do wonder if medical professionals are not allowed to acknowledge when things go wrong by their insurers.

When I joined the practise I never expected to be left struggling and in pain for what at the time felt like forever.