A Raleigh woman has been arrested for allegedly offering dental services without proper licensing and taking thousands of dollars from unsuspecting patients. Ebony Nicohole McBean, 42, was apprehended by Raleigh police after a warrant, first issued in November, was finally executed. She faces one charge of practicing medicine without a license as well as three felony counts of obtaining property by false pretenses.
Authorities said clients paid significant sums to The Smiling Face Company, owned by McBean, to receive orthodontic treatments including braces. Some patients reported they could not get answers about refunds, future appointments, or access to their dental records. According to police documents, in one case McBean provided treatment valued at $5,820 to a victim, even though she was not a licensed dentist and claimed to work alongside a Dr. Ramsey. However, officials stated there was no connection between her and Dr. Ramsey, whose own dental license was under probationary review.
Several victims came forward, describing how McBean allegedly took thousands of dollars for braces services and failed to provide adequate follow-up or patient documentation. Despite advertising her experience as an orthodontic assistant, a search for McBean’s credentials with the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners produced no results, indicating she held no dental license in the state.
Concerns among patients increased when The Smiling Face Company unexpectedly closed its doors, leaving customers without guidance or redress. This closure happened shortly before the arrest warrants for McBean were signed. The North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners had previously issued warnings to the public about individuals posing as licensed dental professionals.
After her arrest, McBean posted bond and is expected to appear in court to face the charges. Police and regulatory officials said they will continue investigating to ensure the protection of public health and uphold proper medical standards in dental care.
Tags: dental careorthodontic