Lawsuit: Braces left on for 11 years

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PORTLAND, Ore., Aug. 28 (UPI) -- An Oregon 18-year-old is suing an orthodontist over permanent injuries he says were a result of wearing braces for 11 years.

Devin Bost's Multnomah County circuit court complaint against Brad Chvatal alleges the orthodontist caused injuries to his teeth, mouth and gums by having him wear braces for 11 years, ABC News reported Tuesday.

David Hollander, Bost's attorney, said the suit is seeking $35,100, the amount Bost had to pay for corrective oral surgery and other procedures, and $150,000 for pain and suffering.

Chvatal said he could not discuss the specifics of the case due to confidentiality rules, but the situation was "very complicated."

John Buzzatto, president of the American Association of Orthodontists, said braces are typically worn for 1 to 3 years. He said he "could not think of an instance" where someone would need to wear the braces for 11 years.