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Lewiston Dentist Accused of Health, Safety Violations Returns to Practice

A Lewiston dentist who had his license temporarily suspended earlier this year is practicing again.

The Maine Board of Dental Practice suspended Dr. Jan Kippax after receiving more than a dozen complaints that alleged he inappropriately restrained patients during dental procedures, conducted procedures before anesthesia took effect, used contaminated gloves and extracted the wrong teeth, among other issues.

In its order in February, the board said it would hold a hearing on the complaints before Kippax’s 30-day suspension expired. But a hearing has yet to be scheduled.

In a written statement from Kippax’s attorney, James Belleau says his client has returned to practice as he is fully permitted to do. Belleau called the suspension an impulsive action by the board, which he says is biased against Kippax.

The executive director of the Maine Board of Dental Practice says the matter regarding Kippax is active and a hearing date will be set.

This story was originally published Aug. 3, 2017 at 3:21 p.m. ET.