Unlicensed Dental Providers Put Patients and the Profession at Risk
Reports of unlicensed individuals performing dental procedures are on the rise, leaving patients financially and physically harmed while eroding trust in legitimate oral health professionals. Strengthening oversight and patient awareness is essential to protect both the public and the integrity of the profession.
The abrupt closure of an orthodontic practice in Raleigh, North Carolina, brought to light the fact that an orthodontic assistant, not a licensed dentist or orthodontist, had been providing appliance therapy to the practice’s unknowing patients. The practice was owned by a dentist whose license was probationary because of previous accusations of allowing unlicensed professionals to provide patient treatment. Patients who paid thousands for orthodontic treatment were left without refunds, records, or completed care after the business abruptly shut down. The unlicensed provider problem was revealed after an investigation by the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners.
These cases highlight a growing issue nationwide: individuals offering dental services without appropriate credentials. While some claim prior experience as dental assistants or technicians, performing any procedure that alters oral tissues or teeth without a dental license is illegal and dangerous. To address this rise in unlicensed providers, some have suggested that laws and penalties be increased to serve as deterrents, more data be collected and shared so illegal practices can be found more quickly, and the importance of promoting professional ethics in the profession. Click here to read more.
