For Immediate Release
August 6, 2002

For Information Contact:
Genene W. Morris
973-504-6327

Suspended Somerset County Orthodontist Sued for Unlicensed Practice of Dentistry

NEWARK-Somerset County Orthodontist John G. McIntyre has been ordered to appear at a superior court hearing on August 8, 2002 to show cause why he should not be permanently restrained from engaging in the practice of dentistry. The order follows a complaint filed by the State alleging he continued to treat orthodontic patients after his license to practice dentistry was suspended effective April 7, 2002, Attorney General David Samson and Consumer Affairs Director Reni Erdos announced today.

Somerset County Chancery Court Judge Roger F. Mahon temporarily restrained McIntyre from practicing dentistry and holding himself out as a licensed dentist pending the hearing. Judge Mahon also ordered an inspection of McIntyre"s office at 211 West End Avenue, Raritan, New Jersey and appointed a receiver to assist patients and the Board in obtaining and transferring dental and billing records.

The Board of Dentistry's order suspending McIntyre's license stemmed from his admission in an agreement he entered into with the New Jersey Office of Insurance Fraud Prosecutor that he filed a false insurance claim and his failure to cooperate with the Board's investigation into the treatment of his patients.

The State's complaint, filed July 22, 2002, alleges that following the April 7 effective date of his suspension, McIntyre treated at least 15 dental patients in April, June and July. The State's suit seeks an order barring McIntyre from offering or performing any dental services until he is licensed to do so. The suit also seeks restitution, costs, attorneys fees and civil penalties.

McIntyre was initially licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry in July 1986.

"The Consumer Fraud Act and the Dental Practice Act are intended to protect consumers and patients from the types of activities alleged in this complaint," Attorney General Samson said. "Through this action, we are attempting to put an end to Dr. McIntyre's unlawful activities."

"The unlicensed practice of dentistry is, quite simply, unlawful in the State of New Jersey," Erdos said. "We cannot and will not sit by idly and watch Dr. McIntyre flout our State's laws. That is why we have taken this action."

The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, in cooperation with the New Jersey Dental Association, has identified 11 area orthodontists who have offered to treat McIntyre's patients. Patients may contact the Board at 973-504-6405 to obtain a list of the 11 dentists and/or to arrange for the transfer of records.