A 70-year-old Long Island woman, Gladys Serrano, is facing charges of practicing unlicensed dentistry out of her apartment kitchen in Hempstead. Authorities found a curtain separating the kitchen work area, which included a patient chair and used dental equipment. Serrano allegedly extracted five teeth from a victim and failed to provide necessary follow-up care, putting the victim at risk. There are no records of Serrano practicing dentistry lawfully in the state.
Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly emphasized the serious risk to public health and safety posed by Serrano’s alleged unauthorized dental practice. Serrano has been charged with felony unauthorized practice of a profession and faces up to four years in prison if convicted. She pleaded guilty and was released with electronic monitoring, ordered to surrender her passport and remain in the state.
The incident highlights the dangers of unlicensed dental services and the importance of seeking care from licensed professionals. Serrano’s next court date is scheduled for early January. Public health officials are warning individuals to be cautious of individuals offering dental services without proper authorization to ensure their safety and well-being.
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