Pediatric Dental Deaths

http://abc13.com/two-children-mysteriously-die-after-trip-to-dentists-office/2878336/

Kool Smiles, a pediatric dental office in Yuma, is under scrutiny for the death of two young children shortly after routine dental procedures. 2-year-old Zion Gastelum visited the office in December 2017 for a tooth filling. Three weeks after the procedure, Gastelum stopped breathing and died. His death is still under investigation. 4-year-old Liseth Lares visited the office for the treatment of cavities and a dental abscess in January 2016. After leaving the office she developed a fever, therefore her mother called the office and expressed her concerns. Her mother claims that after examining Liseth, the Dentist dismissed her concerns and assured her that Liseth would be fine. Liseth died of an infection days later.

Lares is filing a lawsuit on behalf of her daughter. She claims that her motivation for the suit is bringing attention to the tragic death of daughter and the wrong doing of Kool Smiles. Lares hopes that her efforts will spare other children a similar fate. Her attorney states that Kool Smiles departed from the standard of care, and that Liseth would have survived had she received proper medical attention. The standard of care is a common theme in personal injury cases. In order for the defendant to be liable for the plaintiff’s injuries, the plaintiff must establish that the defendant acted unreasonably under the circumstances. Professionals such as dentists and doctors are held to a standard that conforms to generally acceptable norms of their profession.

All wrongful death cases are especially tragic. The death of young children makes them all the more gut wrenching. Although money can never truly compensate families for the death of a loved one, the legal system offers some form of recourse. The time between death and when justice is finally served is often long and drawn out. The lengthy legal process is especially emotional and traumatic for the family involved, therefore a skilled attorney can make all the difference during this delicate time. Garrison Law Firm represents personal injury victims and their families. Attorney Kevin Garrison has experience with dental malpractice cases, including those that result in death. Attorney Kevin Garrison has the experience and resources to pursue dental or medical malpractice cases. Garrison Law Firm welcomes any questions that you may have: 623-915-1100.