Fake Dentist Operated Illegally in Czech Republic for Over Two Years

A fake dentist has been uncovered in the Czech Republic, having operated an illegal dental practice for two and a half years. The individual, aged 22, was temporarily detained along with two accomplices, according to a police spokesperson's announcement on Wednesday. He faces multiple charges, including attempted bodily harm, unregistered business activities, and money laundering.

According to reports, the suspect set up a fully equipped dental clinic in his family home in Havlickuv Brod at the beginning of 2023. He allegedly sought to compensate for his lack of formal dental training by researching procedures online. Together with an accomplice impersonating a dental hygienist, he treated numerous patients, billing them over four million Czech crowns (approximately 160,000 euros).

Not only did they conduct basic dental examinations, but the duo also performed tooth extractions, root canal treatments, administered anesthetics, and fitted dental prosthetics, as detailed by the police spokesperson. A third accomplice was responsible for creating the dental prostheses. If convicted, the individuals could face up to eight years in prison.

Havlickuv Brod, located about 100 kilometers southeast of Prague, has a population of approximately 24,000. The region, particularly in rural areas of the Czech Republic, is experiencing a significant shortage of dentists. Many dental school graduates prefer to settle in larger cities or seek opportunities abroad, exacerbating the lack of dental professionals in smaller communities.

This incident highlights a critical issue facing the Czech healthcare system, where the disparity between urban and rural healthcare services is becoming increasingly pronounced. While urban areas may have ample healthcare resources, rural populations often struggle to access essential services, including dental care. As authorities continue to investigate the illegal practice, the case raises awareness about the urgent need for more dental professionals in underserved regions.