From groundbreaking research to controversial dentist behavior, 2025 was a year full of news that captured the attention of our readers. DrBicuspid’s top 10 stories highlight malpractice, regulatory actions, and more.
Without further pause, here are the top stories of 2025.
10. Dentist accused of disfiguring patients ordered to pay $9.5M
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A Missouri dentist was ordered to pay about $9.5 million to 24 former patients who claimed his care caused permanent damage and disfigurement. A Jackson County Judge awarded each patient $473,445 after Dr. Brian Jenkins, who ran the now-closed Wright Dentures and Implants in Independence, MO, failed to respond to the malpractice lawsuit. The judge found that Jenkins performed procedures beyond his qualifications, failed to obtain proper consent, and neglected to address patients’ pain and ill-fitting prosthetics.
9. DSO, oral surgeon sued after 33-year-old dies following tooth pull
In November, the family of a 33-year-old Texas man who lapsed into a coma and died after a tooth extraction is suing an oral surgeon, a dental service organization, and the practice where the procedure took place. Donzell Conrad’s family filed the lawsuit against Dr. Pasha Sanders of Smile Brands, affiliated with Castle Dental in Spring, TX, and the practice itself. The lawsuit alleged medical malpractice, claiming Sanders failed to properly respond to Conrad’s declining blood oxygen levels and recommended sedation despite his medical history.
8. ‘MAGA dentist’ claims she lets anti-Trump patients suffer
A California dentist who publicly identifies as a “MAGA (Make America Great Again)” faced backlash after saying at a political fundraiser that she gives patients with opposing political views less pain medication. The comments by Dr. Harleen Grewal of Skyline Smiles in Santa Clarita prompted complaints to the Dental Board of California and widespread criticism. In response, the California Dental Association stated that the remarks do not reflect the profession’s ethical standards.
7. Texas dentist arrested in predator sting
A Texas dentist was among 18 people arrested in a sting operation targeting individuals allegedly seeking sexual activity with minors. Dr. Scott Sachs, whose dental practice has since closed, was charged with online solicitation of a minor/sexual conduct after reportedly communicating with undercover investigators and attempting to meet an underage individual. He was booked into the county jail and released on a $25,000 bond.
6. Cause of death of 9-year-old dental patient revealed
Additionally, a medical examiner ruled the death of a 9-year-old California girl who died hours after dental surgery as accidental. Her cause of death was determined to be methemoglobinemia following recent nitrous oxide administration, a condition that affects the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. After being discharged from the dental practice, she later became unresponsive at home despite family monitoring, and lifesaving efforts were unsuccessful.
5. Swallowed implant driver leads to major lawsuit
In May, an Illinois man filed a lawsuit alleging dental negligence after he unknowingly swallowed a dental implant driver that later required surgery and caused disfigurement. The patient sought damages from two dentists and the Chicago practice, claiming they failed to use preventive measures and did not inform him that the instrument had entered his digestive tract. Imaging months later revealed the implant driver lodged in his colon, leading to surgery and complications.
4. Anti-inflammatory drug may reverse gum disease damage
Researchers found that the anti-inflammatory drug dimethyl fumarate (DMF) may help reverse periodontitis by restoring mitochondrial energy function and immune balance in the gums. In animal and lab studies, DMF reduced inflammation, bone loss, and oxidative stress while improving bone density and cellular healing.
3. Healthy boy dies while sedated for dental treatment
A boy with asthma and no other known medical conditions died after experiencing a cardiac event while under sedation for a dental procedure at an Oklahoma practice. Staff initiated lifesaving measures and called 911 before the child was transported to a local children’s hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Authorities reported no obvious signs of trauma, and the case was not treated as a criminal investigation.
2. Troubled dentist in danger of losing his license
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In April, a Missouri dentist faced legal trouble in connection with a fatal hit-and-run, an arrest for alleged fentanyl trafficking, and possession of a stolen firearm.
The Missouri Dental Board filed a petition seeking to revoke the license of Dr. John “Jay” Joseph and prohibit him from practicing, citing a substantial risk to public health and safety. Joseph was charged with multiple felony offenses.
1. The truth about grape juice, stomach flu, and dental ramifications
Rumors online claim grape juice can prevent the stomach flu, but Tracee Dahm, MS, RDH, explains why dental teams should be cautious about this advice. Drinking large amounts of grape juice can stain teeth, erode enamel due to its acidity, and worsen dry mouth, increasing the risk of decay. Despite its viral popularity, there is no scientific evidence that grape juice prevents viral gastroenteritis.
