Dentist who used paper clips in root canals admits to fraud

[minx]

Just when you thought it was safe to go back to the dentist:

By The Associated Press | The Canadian Press

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. - A former dentist in Massachusetts has pleaded guilty to Medicaid fraud for using paper clips instead of stainless steel posts in root canals.

Michael Clair is scheduled to be sentenced next week. He has pleaded guilty to defrauding Medicaid of $130,000, assault and battery, illegally prescribing prescription drugs and witness intimidation charges.

Prosecutors say the 53-year-old Clair was suspended by Medicaid in 2002 but continued filing by using the names of other dentists in his Fall River practice.

Authorities say he used sections of paper clips instead of stainless steel posts for root canals to save money. The use of paper clips can cause pain and even infection.

Attorney General Martha Coakley says paper clips can sometimes be used temporarily, but Clair used the paper clips as a permanent fix.


And all the while the dentist kept asking, "Is it safe?" I really must watch MARATHON MAN again.

[Swami]

Still not a patch on Colin Howell - read up on him if you want to know about a dodgy dentist.

Swami