Few Ohio dentists lose licenses despite complaints

The Ohio State Dental Board investigated 578 patient complaints during the last year, but a news investigation found that no dentists lost their licenses and only 46 were suspended.

Records also show that from July 1, 2010, to June 30, 2011, eight dentists voluntarily surrendered their licenses or retired, according to a report by WEWS TV/NewsNet 5.

One dentist is still practicing, despite having one of the worst discipline records, the story stated.

The board also filed 67 consent agreements, which are used to discipline dentists who violated standards of care. The agreements often require dentists to take continuing education classes.

Board officials said the goal is not to revoke the licenses of dentists but to help them address practice deficiencies when possible.