Michael Clair, Mass. Dentist, Pleads Guilty to Using Paper Clips in Root Canals [Video]

Ready to be freaked even more about going to the dentist?

Michael Clair, a 53-year-old former dentist in Massachusetts, pleaded guilty Friday to a slew of charges including accusations that he used paper clips instead of stainless steel during dental procedures.

Authorities say that instead of the stainless steel posts that are normally used in root canal operations, Clair used sections of paper clips — which can put patients at risk of infection and tremendous pain — in an effort to save money.

To say Clair ran a very scary dental practice is an understatement, as his other charges include assault and battery, larceny, tampering with evidence, and illegally prescribing prescription medication— Hydrocodone, Combunox, and Percocet — to other staff members.

Last but not least, Clair, who now lives in Maryland, was suspended by Medicaid in 2002, but continued to file claims – $130,000 worth – through June 2005 by using the names of other dentists in his practice, according to prosecutors.

Despite the fact that you’ll now probably skip your next two appointments, readers can rest assured that Clair no longer practices dentistry.

Fox News reports that Clair’s license to practice dentistry expired in Massachusetts in 2008, and his licenses in Maryland, Florida and West Virginia had previously been revoked

He is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 30 in New Bedford Superior Court.

For more information on Michael Clair and his bizarre dental malpractice case, check out the video clip below:

Do trips to the dentist rank high on your scale of things that you fear? Chime in with your thoughts in the comment section below.