Fake Dentist Caught Illegally Installing Braces at Home
FAKE DENTIST – Authorities in Cotabato City arrested a 26-year-old woman, known as “Jaja,” for illegally practicing dentistry. She was caught in an entrapment operation after offering to install orthodontic braces for just ₱1,000 on an undercover police officer.
The operation was launched after the Regional Anti-Cyber Crime Unit – Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (RACU-BAR) discovered her Facebook posts falsely claiming to be a licensed dentist. She advertised various dental services online, including brace installation, and scheduled appointments through social media. Clients were directed to her home, where she performed the procedures.
Speaking at Camp Crame, Police Lt. Wallen Mae Arancillo, spokesperson for the Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group, revealed that “Jaja” did not have the proper credentials. The Philippine Dental Association confirmed that she was not a licensed dentist. Police arrested her just as she was about to install braces on the undercover officer.
During the raid, authorities confiscated substandard dental tools and materials. Investigators discovered that she only used hot water for sterilization, which is not a proper or safe method in dentistry. Proper sterilization requires specialized equipment to prevent infections and ensure patient safety.
Further inspection revealed that she conducted dental procedures outside her home, near a river, in an unsanitary environment. According to Arancillo, professional dentists confirmed that dental procedures must be performed in licensed clinics under strict hygiene conditions. The lack of proper sanitation posed serious health risks to her clients.
Authorities have reminded the public to verify the credentials of medical professionals before seeking treatment. They emphasized that unlicensed dental procedures can lead to severe infections, complications, and permanent damage. Legal action will be pursued against “Jaja” for violating laws related to medical practice.
The police continue to crack down on illegal dental practitioners to protect public health and prevent further harm caused by unlicensed individuals offering unsafe procedures.