A West Des Moines dentist has agreed not to be alone with female patients while state regulators decide what to do about allegations he made lewd remarks and advances to women in his office.
The Iowa Dental Board alleges dentist Phelan Thomas “has demonstrated a pattern of making improper remarks to and exhibiting inappropriate behavior with female patients and (dental) students,” according to documents released Monday. The allegations include that he made inappropriate advances to students and had a relationship with a patient.
The board, which licenses dentists, also said Thomas did not take proper steps to prevent infections. The board said Thomas failed to appropriately wear or change gloves; improperly loaded sterilizers; and failed to have proper policies on how to dispose of medical waste and expired medication.
Thomas said he believes there is no merit to the charges.
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