Test will spot 'filling fraud'

The new test will help spot fake fillings

NHS fraud watchdogs say they have developed a new test to make sure dentists are not giving patients fake gold fillings.

The NHS Counter-fraud Service's dental fraud team uncovered the suspected use of cheap materials such as nickel by a number of dentists.

The dentists then claimed back the full amount they would have received for the gold filling.

A new non-invasive test takes a sample of the gold filling which is analysed in the lab to make sure its gold content meets NHS standards.

£1.15m repaid

If any fillings are found to be suspect, investigators move in to tackle the fraud.

Jim Gee, chief executive of the CFS, said: "The test is an important development in countering the fraudulent use of inferior materials by a minority of dentists.

"The majority of dentists are honest, but this test will ensure that the dentists who are using such material are found and suitably punished."

The CFS also revealed that Mohammed Sheikh, a Nottingham dentist has paid back £1.15m to the NHS.

The High Court ruled in March that he had defrauded the NHS by claiming back money for reopening his surgery for emergency treatment when it was already open.

When a dentist's surgery is reopened for emergency treatment, a dentist receives a payment of £59.60.

Mr Sheikh owned and or controlled 12 practices in the Nottinghamshire area and another two in Derby between 1993 and 2000.

Mr Gee added: "Mohammed Sheikh defrauded the NHS of a significant amount of money.

"We are very pleased that this money has now been recovered and will now be spent where it was intended - the delivery of patient care."