UF dentistry admin accused of relationship with resident

An administrator at the University of Florida (UF) College of Dentistry has been disciplined after a relationship with a resident was deemed inappropriate, according to an article in the Gainesville Sun.

An investigation by the university determined that Timothy Wheeler, DMD, PhD, gave exclusive educational opportunities to the woman, but he denies a sexual relationship.

Previously, Dr. Wheeler was a senior associate dean, director of the School of Advanced Dental Sciences, and chairman of the department of orthodontics at the university but was stripped of those positions by College of Dentistry Dean Teresa Dolan. Dr. Wheeler, whose annual salary was reduced by $35,000 to $277,000, will continue to serve as a researcher and tenured professor. He has been with the institution since 1978.

The investigation determined that the resident received additional patients and clinical time among other advantages not provided to other residents, according to the Sun. The two were seen at conferences and sporting events, and a text message suggested that Dr. Wheeler attempted a physical relationship.

The evidence was enough for the university to decide that his behavior was unprofessional, the Sun reported.