Eastern Iowa Dentist Alleged to be ‘Harmful to the Public.’

A dentist in Linn County has been charged with practicing dentistry in a manner that is 'harmful to the public.'

The Cedar Rapids Gazette cites records from the Iowa Dental Board that show dentist Terra Hickey of Center Point practiced in a manner that was harmful or detrimental to the public. Hickey has been an Iowa-licensed dentist since July 2000. Records indicated that the investigation into Dr. Hickey's practice began in 2023.

What Dentist's Office Does Terra Hickey Work At? 

The Gazette reports that Dr. Hickey works at Center Point Family Dentistry, located at 907 Bank Court in Center Point. According to the practices website, Hickey grew up in Cedar Rapids and graduated from Cedar Rapids Jefferson High School. She attended Coe College and earned her dental degree at the University of Iowa.

What Did Dr. Hickey Do to Be Deemed 'Harmful to the Public'? 

The Gazette reports that Dr. Hickey, at an unspecified time in the past, failed to recognize tooth decay, failed to complete a thorough removal of decay, failed to properly place restorations, and failed to adequately inform patients of their diagnosis and treatment plans. Dr. Hickey also failed multiple times to diagnose cavities, which resulted in tooth extractions in multiple patients.

READ MORE: Iowa DNR Urges Residents to be 'Bear Aware'

Will Dr. Hickey Continue to Practice Dentistry?

The Iowa Dental Board has agreed to resolve the case with a settlement agreement, according to the Gazette. That agreement calls for Dr. Hickey to complete a comprehensive remedial education program and a course on ethics. The Gazette reports that her license will be on probation for one year, and she has to pay a $1,200 fine for her probation. A sampling of her work will also be reviewed by a dental-practice monitor.

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