The Enforcement Division is responsible for the preliminary investigation of complaints. Two investigators are based in Austin, with one each in Houston, Dallas and San Antonio. The Division investigates complaints against dentists, dental hygienists and dental laboratories. Although the Board has no jurisdiction over unlicensed persons, the Board's investigators often help local prosecutors investigate allegations of practicing dentistry without a license or operating an unregistered laboratory. All complaints, which should be in writing, are acknowledged within 30 days.
Every complaint is assigned a priority classification.
Priority One represents more serious allegations of violations, and many include patient death, patient injury, practicing without a license, and unsanitary conditions. Priority Two represents less serious threats to the public welfare, including records-keeping and advertising violations. Each complaint is reviewed to determine whether the Board has jurisdiction, or the authority to act. Investigation-When an investigation is opened, an investigator is assigned to determine the circumstances of the incident. The Complainant may be contacted for further explanation and clarification of the complaint.