Dentist Failed To Tell Patient of Worsening Gum Disease, Lawsuit Says

A patient is suing over allegations that his long-time dentist did not inform him of his worsening gum disease.

James Smith filed a malpractice suit Jan. 12 in DuPage County Circuit Court against Gary L. Ahasic, D.M.D. individually, and his practice Fairview Dental at 541 W. Sullivan Road, in Aurora.

Smith maintains that he was patient of Ahasic from May 12, 1980 through Jan. 21, 2013. During that time, Ahasic was licensed to practice general dentistry and provided general dental care, including diagnostic and restorative care, and treatment planning to the plaintiff.

According to the lawsuit, Ahasic noted the appearance of periodontal disease in February 1999, but did not refer to any particular area or teeth. The Aurora dentist did not mention the condition of his patient’s gums again until September of 2012, a period of more than twelve years.

Smith claims that he did not become aware of his progressing gum disease until after his last visit to the Aurora dentist. Around Jan. 31, 2013, Smith returned to Ahasic and informed him that he had been diagnosed with periodontal disease by another professional. Only then did the Ahasic refer him to a periodontal specialist, he alleges.

The lawsuit maintains that Ahasic did not comply with the standard of care. The plaintiff’s exams were incomplete and inadequate. Also, Ahasic allegedly neglected to maintain records charting the progression of Smith’s periodontal disease.

As a result, Smith says that he now suffers from moderate to advanced periodontal disease resulting in significant attachment and bone loss. Smith has since undergone osseous surgery, including bone grafting.

An affidavit to the complaint states that Smith will require professional monitoring and frequent periodontal maintenance for the foreseeable future and is at risk of tooth loss.

Ahasic has been licensed to practice dentistry in the state of Illinois since 1977, and has no disciplinary record, according to the Illinois Department of Finance and Professional Regulation.