Dentist Board Blasted

Independent analysts say a state board that is supposed to discipline dentists often takes months or years to resolve consumer complaints. The Legislature removed the entire membership of the Dental Board of California last year amid charges it was not doing enough to discipline the 30,000 dentists it licenses. State Senator Liz Figueroa says the analysis by two outside consultants confirms lawmakers´ fears. The Department of Consumer Affairs also says the board must do much better. The board says it is already taking steps to speed up investigations.