Authorities in Wake County have arrested a woman accused of impersonating a licensed orthodontist and performing dental work without proper credentials.
The woman, Ebony McBean, allegedly ran a business called The Smiling Face Company, where she provided orthodontic services, including fitting braces, despite having no dental license.
Investigators say McBean collected thousands of dollars from patients for these services, leaving some with poor or incomplete dental work.
“The safety of our residents is our top priority,” said a spokesperson from the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners. “We take cases of unlicensed dental practice very seriously and encourage anyone who suspects fraud to report it immediately.”
McBean had been under investigation for several months. Warrants for her arrest were issued in November 2025, but authorities temporarily lost track of her after she left the state. She was eventually apprehended during a traffic stop and has since posted bond.
Legal proceedings are ongoing. McBean failed to appear at a recent Wake County court hearing, and her next scheduled appearance is set for March 9, 2026. If convicted, she could face multiple criminal charges related to practicing dentistry without a license.
The North Carolina Dental Society has issued warnings to the public, emphasizing the importance of verifying dental professionals’ credentials before receiving treatment.
This case highlights a growing concern nationwide, as unlicensed individuals sometimes pose as dental or medical professionals, putting patients at risk. Authorities urge anyone who has received services from unlicensed providers to come forward and report their experience.
Credit: CBS 17 | Raleigh, Durham News & Weather | WNCN CBS17.com