An Arizona dentist, Dr. Robert Janisse, is under scrutiny after the state dental board discovered he allegedly used an unsterilized, "rusty" pair of pliers to remove an implant from a sedated patient. This information comes following reports by DrBicuspid that detailed the Flagstaff Laser Dentistry doctor’s unconventional method during a November 2023 surgery. The patient involved had a compromised immune system, consequently placing him at a higher risk for infection.
Dr. Janisse's license, issued in 2012, was summarily suspended by the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners following this event. While he aspires to continue his practice, “This was an unfortunate, isolated incident,” his attorney, Mandi Karvis, said, in the hope of settling with the board. Mandi Karvis proposed a settlement that included probation, continued education, and restrictions specifically linked to anesthesia procedures as remedial steps her client was willing to take. However, the board rejected the offer, deciding instead to push for a formal hearing, according to ABC15.
Dr. Janisse, when approached by ABC15 following the board's decision, expressed his disappointment, stating, “I try to do the best I can for my patients.” He continued to vouch for the quality of his work by highlighting the satisfaction of the patient in question. "I give the best care. I care about my patients," he said, emphasizing his commitment to his profession.
The board's report not only raised concerns about the sterilization practices but also questioned the necessity of the dental work performed. Allegations suggest that there was “no clinical evidence” that warranted the removal of all the patient’s lower teeth, some of which appeared to be “restorable and contained long, healthy roots and only mild bone loss.” Furthermore, Janisse's judgment in the use of sedation and consideration of the patient's high blood pressure was brought into question, as detailed by ABC15.
A formal hearing is scheduled for December 19, where an administrative law judge will assess testimony and evidence to guide the board's final decision regarding Dr. Janisse's professional fate. The Board President, Dr. Anthony Herro, has contributed to defining the next steps in this process, aiming to uphold the integrity and trust imperative to the patient-provider relationship. Until then, the dentist’s practice remains in suspension as the community awaits the board's conclusive verdict.
