Receiving notice from the Dental Board of California can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure what triggered the investigation. Whether it’s a patient complaint, a billing audit, or a referral from another agency, disciplinary action by the Board can jeopardize your license, reputation, and livelihood.
If the State of California Dental Board has contacted you, acting quickly, understanding the process, and knowing when to bring legal support is essential. Below is a breakdown of what to expect and how a dental board lawyer can guide you from the earliest stages through your final hearing.
The first notice you receive may come in the form of:
-A complaint acknowledgment
-A request for records or a response
-A formal accusation or statement of issues
This typically means an investigation is already underway. Allegations may involve clinical care, billing practices, advertising violations, controlled substances, or unlicensed activity. Even anonymous complaints can trigger California Dental Board disciplinary actions.
Don’t ignore these early communications. Responding promptly—and carefully—can make all the difference.
One of the most critical decisions you can make is hiring a lawyer early in the process. A seasoned dental board of California investigation lawyer can:
-Advise you on how to respond to initial inquiries
-Help you avoid self-incrimination or missteps
-Review patient records, charting, or billing documentation
-Communicate with the Board’s investigators on your behalf
This isn’t just about legal defense, it’s about protecting your license before things escalate.
While your attorney handles communication with the Board, you’ll want to begin assembling documentation, which may include:
-Treatment notes
-Consent forms
-X-rays, models, or photos
-Internal protocols or checklists
-Witness statements from staff or patients
Your legal team will help evaluate which documentation supports your defense and how to present it. Strong documentation can significantly influence the Dental Board of California’s review process.
For additional tips on preparing records under scrutiny, see our guide to responding to government investigations.
If the matter progresses to a formal hearing, here’s what you can expect:
-The hearing is held before an administrative law judge (ALJ)
-Both sides present evidence and call witnesses
-The ALJ submits a proposed decision to the Dental Board
-The Board can adopt, modify, or reject the decision
Statements made under oath and evidence presented become part of your permanent licensing record. That’s why having experienced representation from a dental board lawyer is crucial during this phase.
Step 5: Know What’s at StakeDisciplinary outcomes can include:
-Public reprimand
-License probation
-Suspension or revocation
-Fines or continuing education requirements
Even non-disciplinary outcomes, like letters of admonishment, can impact your professional standing and visibility in the California Dental Board disciplinary action records.
If your case involves alleged fraud, kickbacks, or improper prescribing, see how to build a strong healthcare fraud defense.
Early legal intervention can change the trajectory of your case. From shaping your initial response to defending you at the hearing, a knowledgeable attorney is your best resource in protecting your license and reputation.
Fenton Jurkowitz Law Group represents dentists across California in licensing disputes, administrative hearings, and investigations. We understand how the Board operates and what it takes to move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to speak with a dental board lawyer and take the right first step.