This is a concerning case, as illegal dental practices pose serious health risks. Maritza Villatoro, the accused, allegedly operated an unlicensed dental clinic out of her home in northwest Houston.
Investigators discovered her performing a dental cleaning at the time of her arrest, with a room in her house set up like a dental office, including professional equipment but lacking proper safety and sterilization standards.
Villatoro had previously held a dental assistant license, which was revoked after a DWI conviction involving a child in 2021. Now facing charges for practicing dentistry without a license, authorities fear that more victims may emerge, given the scope of her alleged activities. People who received dental treatment from her are urged to contact the Houston Police Department, as such unlicensed practices can lead to infections, injury, or other serious medical complications.
It’s a reminder of the importance of verifying credentials when seeking medical or dental services.