Utah Dentist's License Revoked After Years of Substandard Care and Patient Harm

Failed Root Canals, Lost Implants: How a Utah Dentist Accused of Substandard Care Was Allowed to Keep Practicing A Utah dentist accused of substandard care was allowed to continue practicing despite repeated reports of failed root canals and lost implants. Dr. Nicholas LaFeber's license was reinstated by regulators after being urged to revoke it by the state's dentistry board. According to Division of Professional Licensing records, in 2020, an agreement was reached between Dr. LaFeber and the licensing division, which allowed him to continue practicing under close supervision. However, new patients have come forward claiming they suffered harm at his hands. "I had a root canal done by Dr. LaFeber, and it failed," said one patient, who wished to remain anonymous. "I ended up losing my tooth due to the poor workmanship." The Division of Professional Licensing records show that Dr. LaFeber's practice was plagued with complaints about substandard care. In 2019, a patient complained that their implant had been lost during surgery, and in 2020, another patient reported that their root canal had failed. Despite these reports, the state's dentistry board urged regulators to revoke Dr. LaFeber's license. However, instead of revoking it, regulators reinstated it, allowing him to continue practicing. "It's a travesty," said Dr. Brandon McKee, a dentist who has spoken out against Dr. LaFeber's practices. "The licensing division should have taken action sooner to protect patients." Background and context: Dr. LaFeber's practice was first scrutinized in 2018 when the state's dentistry board launched an investigation into his care of patients. The investigation revealed a pattern of substandard care, including failed root canals and lost implants. The investigation also found that Dr. LaFeber had been using outdated techniques and materials, which contributed to the poor outcomes for his patients. Additional perspectives: Dr. McKee believes that the licensing division's decision to reinstate Dr. LaFeber's license was a mistake. "It sends a message that substandard care is acceptable," he said. Current status and next developments: The Division of Professional Licensing has announced an investigation into Dr. LaFeber's practice, which will determine whether his actions were negligent or reckless. The state's dentistry board has also called for greater oversight of dental practices to prevent similar incidents in the future. In a statement, the Division of Professional Licensing said: "We take all complaints seriously and are committed to protecting the public from substandard care." The incident raises questions about the regulation of healthcare professionals and the consequences of allowing them to continue practicing despite repeated reports of substandard care. It also highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in the medical profession. As one patient noted, "It's not just about Dr. LaFeber; it's about the system that allowed him to keep practicing." *Reporting by Propublica.*