DANGERS OF FAKE DENTISTS
ILLEGAL dentistry is a term used to describe dental procedures done by a bogus dentist using a counterfeit dental device. Those who conduct dental procedures — such as placing or fixing braces, making false teeth or bridge, scaling and teeth whitening — without educational background are fake dentists.
To become a dentist in Malaysia, one has to undergo dental training in dental schools recognised by the Malaysian Dental Council (MDC), either in local or overseas universities.
Well-trained and qualified dentists must register with MDC and obtain an annual dentistry certificate to practise dentistry.
Dental procedures done by unqualified persons are illegal and they can be charged.
Illegal dentistry is a threat not only in Malaysia but also in advanced countries, such as the United States, where multiple cases of fake dentistry had been reported.
In 2017, in Fairfax, Virginia, a person contracted a life-threatening blood infection following an illegal dental treatment.
In Malaysia, nine cases of illegal dentistry were taken to court in the first half of 2017.
In 2016, someone was fined RM250,000, and in 2017, the maximum fine imposed was RM300,000.
Dentists must practise dental procedures on dental premises approved by the Health Ministry.
Any other premises used to carry out dental procedures are deemed as practising dentistry on unregistered premises and the person carrying out the procedures can be prosecuted.
The crime carries a maximum fine of RM300,000 and six years’ jail.
Illegal dentistry does not only involve practitioners but also the use of unregulated dental equipment.
Medical and dental products supplied by the dental suppliers must be registered under the Private Healthcare Facilities Services Act 1998 and the Medical Act, 1971.
They are allowed to sell only genuine products to practitioners.
Most unregistered dental dealers are from overseas.
Also, due to the growth of ecommerce, there is less control on whether the dealers are licensed or not.
Unregistered dental dealers sell fake dental equipment at cheaper prices to fake dentists.
We need a better solution to control the supply of fake products to fake dentists.
It is important for the public to know the difference between legal and illegal dentistry.
People are often attracted to lower prices offered by fake dentists.
However, they need to understand that the treatment provided is substandard and poses health risks.
Fake dentists often use premises, such as hotels, homestays, beauty salons and even homes, to avoid being caught by the authorities.
If a dentist asks you to go to any premises other than a registered dental clinic for dental procedures, be alert as he may not be a legal dentist.
The public must ensure that they are treated by dentists registered under the Dental Practitioner Information Management System, which can be accessed via its website.
Those who come across illegal dentistry can lodge a complaint via ohd@moh.gov.my or call 03883 4215. Lecturer and specialist in dental public health, IIUM Kuantan, Pahang