'The results could be life-threatening': Father-son duo arrested on felony charges for unlawful dentistry

A father and son were arrested in northwest Houston for practicing dentistry without a license, under unsanitary conditions.

According to an ABC report, Byron Alberto Zelaya, 58, and Bryant Jesus Zelaya, 31, were charged with a felony for practicing dentistry without a license on Jan. 31. They were assisted by the elder Zelaya's 29-year-old nephew Omar Navarrete-Sevilla, who was charged with a misdemeanor for the same crime. The three were arrested at 6401 Bingle Rd., where they practiced out of Suite 206. Reports from Houston Police Major Offenders Division said that the father and son performed dental work in a “filthy office,” while Navarrete-Sevilla created mouth molds and used dental tools.

Dr. Thomas O’Brien, a real dentist, told ABC how dangerous being treated by an unlicensed dentist can be, highlighting the need for proper sterilization of equipment. According to O'Brien, neglect in this regard can even lead to permanent or deadly conditions.

“The results could be life-threatening,” O’Brien said. “You can wind up with a mouth deformity of sorts. Teeth don't grow back. If you fracture someone's tooth, it's got to come out. Not only can it kill you, but it can also alter your lifestyle.”

The elder Zelaya told police that he was self-taught and had worked in dental lab in the past. He reportedly worked out of the office for about a year. Court records show that a victim paid $2,000 for cleaning and brackets for braces, but notified authorities after noticing both the dirty state of the office and the lack of academic diplomas or professional licenses on the walls.

The Zelayas have been released from jail on bond. Those with information, or who believe they have been victims of unlawful dentistry, are asked to call the Major Offenders Division at 713-308-3100.

If there is doubt about the licensing of a dentist, people can go to the Texas State Board of Dental Examiner website for information.