Dentist probe adjourned

Nov 22 2012 by Julie Gilbert, Hamilton Advertiser

The investigation into a Hamilton dentist accused of misconduct has been postponed until next year – but he can continue to practice

George Campbell who owns Hamilton Orthodontics in Auchingramont Road was hauled before the General Dental Council (GDC) over allegations of inadequate care of around 30 patients spanning a 10-year period.

His conduct hearing started on October 30 and was due to last three weeks.

But the hearing has been adjourned until September next year, due to a problem with witnesses.

And until the hearing reconvenes Mr Campbell can go on practicing as an orthodontist.

Mr Campbell’s patients were allegedly subjected to unnecessary tooth extractions and radiographs.

He is also charged with making ‘inappropriate referrals’ for surgery in respect of eight patients at his centre, and root problems in four patients also allegedly went undiagnosed.

The alleged incidents occurred across Mr Campbell’s seven orthodontic practices between July 11 2001 and August 25 2011.

The conduct hearing has been adjourned because an expert witness appearing for Mr Campbell was unable to attend. The GDC panel felt it was unfair to proceed if there was no expert witness available for the defence, when the GDC had an expert witness available.

Mr Campbell will be allowed to continue practicing during the adjournment but will be subject to a number of restrictive conditions.

He must inform the GDC of who is working for and the treatment plans he draws up for patients will be examined by a Special Orthodontist on the GDC’s specialist list.

He is no longer allowed to carry out certain types of treatment, including any procedure which could expose unerupted teeth. Patients requiring this treatment will be referred to a special orthodontist.