May 08, Kathmandu - Several dental clinics operating in the Dhangadhi and Attaria areas of Kailali district are reportedly jeopardizing public health through unprofessional and illegal practices. A recent on-site inspection conducted by the Nepal Medical Council uncovered alarming violations at multiple clinics, including the absence of licensed doctors, lack of registration, and failure to meet basic health standards.

Following complaints from the Nepal Dental Association Kailali branch, the council coordinated with the District Administration Office and District Police to carry out a special inspection on Baisakh 22, 2082 (Nepali calendar), targeting these clinics.

During the investigation, inspectors found that at Smriti Dental Clinic, an office assistant was performing dental scaling on patients, using rubber gloves. Despite a part-time board displaying the name of Dr. Simran Pant, who is employed at a government hospital, the clinic's operation was largely managed by the owner himself.

At Attaria’s Shikhar Dental, a dental hygienist named Meen Deuba was discovered performing root canal treatments (RCT) independently, without a dentist present. She admitted to conducting all procedures herself in the absence of a licensed doctor.

Similarly, Padmin Bhat of New Dhangadhi Dental confessed to administering treatments personally when no dentist was available. At Smile Dental Clinic, it was revealed that Dr. Hariom Mahato's name was used for treatments, despite him never visiting the clinic. The clinic’s owner, Roshan Regmi, was found to be responsible for all treatments conducted there.

The findings highlight a concerning trend of unlicensed practices endangering patient safety in the region. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against clinics violating health regulations and operating without proper authorization.