Texas goes after unlicensed dentists; a new treatment for salivary stones

Dear DrBicuspid Member,

A steady stream of reports about dental operations run by unlicensed "dentists" has authorities across the U.S. cracking down on these illegal practices. Last month in Chicago, police arrested a man they say was running a makeshift dental office in his basement, and earlier this month city officials in Chelsea, MA, closed down a dental "clinic" they described as a scene from a horror movie.

Because these individuals are not licensed, state dental boards can do little to protect the public. So other authorities are taking matters into their own hands. Last year the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs conducted investigations into unlicensed dentists that resulted in a record number of arrests. Now the Dallas County District Attorney's office in Texas is doing the same. Read more.

Another issue that has officials up in arms -- this time on a global scale -- is mercury. At a United Nations committee meeting in Stockholm next month, officials will begin crafting an international treaty on mercury reduction that could lead to restrictions on dental amalgam. The proceedings may also prompt clashes between amalgam foes and dentists' groups. Read more.

In clinical news, salivary stones can wreak havoc in the salivary glands, often requiring invasive surgery through the face or neck that can lead to nerve damage, cosmetic scarring, even gland removal. But advances in endoscopic treatment now offer patients suffering from sialoliths a less invasive and more tolerable alternative. Read more.

Finally, in his latest Practice Success tip, Dr. Roger Levin looks at the "dos and don'ts" of measuring practice performance. Are your practice goals being achieved?