A Winnipeg teenager is taking legal action against a dental office and its staff, alleging they removed several teeth without his consent during a procedure two years ago.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The plaintiff, an Indigenous individual with autism spectrum disorder and learning disabilities, experienced tooth pain in January 2024 and consulted dentist Dr. Vipulkumar Prajapati at Greenwoods Dental Centre on McPhillips Street. During a February 1 appointment, Prajapati recommended two root canals and a cleaning. The teen expressed fear of dental work, and staff assured him sedation would be used with no additional procedures. He also disclosed allergies to amoxicillin and penicillin, receiving promises these antibiotics would not be administered.
Despite these assurances, Prajapati prescribed the allergens, though a pharmacist later adjusted the medication. On February 13, the teen underwent what the lawsuit describes as unauthorized procedures: four molars extracted and a tube inserted down his throat while inadequately sedated. He received amoxicillin during the five-hour operation and screamed throughout, as his parents pleaded with staff to halt it.
Claims of Consent Violations
The statement of claim, filed last week in the Manitoba Court of King’s Bench, asserts consent covered only the root canals, which were not performed. No permission was sought for extractions, and no explanation provided for their necessity. Prajapati allegedly altered a referral form to falsely indicate consent.
Post-procedure, the teen suffered vomiting, bleeding, severe pain, and lasting physical and mental trauma, including panic attacks and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Defendants and Investigation Findings
Defendants include Dr. Prajapati, anesthesiologist Dr. Donald Simonson, hygienist Kim Anas, clinic owner Dr. Dheeraj Kumar Mittal, and two unnamed staff members, along with their associated companies. A family complaint to the Manitoba Dental Association reportedly confirmed lack of consent for extractions, disregard for allergies, form tampering, and double billing for an exam.
Damages Sought
The lawsuit lists over two dozen harms, such as loss of four molars, head and neck bruising, worsened disabilities, disrupted schooling, anxiety, depression, and psychological trauma. It accuses defendants of breaching duty of care with callous disregard. Relief sought includes general, special, aggravated, and punitive damages, plus interest and costs. No specific total is stated.
The plaintiff states he endured ‘loss, harm, and damage to his health, well-being, education, and employment prospects due to the deliberate, egregious conduct of the defendants.’
