Federal prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation into the anterior growth guidance appliance, a dental device, following a recent KFF Health News-CBS News investigation, according to a motion filed in federal court.
KFF was previously known as the Kaiser Family Foundation.
Multiple lawsuits allege the device has caused grievous harm to at least 20 patients, and the Food and Drug Administration is now investigating its safety, KFF Health News and CBS News have reported.
The appliance is a retainer-like device promoted by some dentists as an option for expanding adult patients’ jawbones, beautifying their faces and curing common ailments like sleep apnea. The lawsuits have alleged patients suffered damaged gums, eroded bone and, in some cases, lost teeth.
The criminal investigation of the use of the device was revealed in a court motion that seeks to delay the largest of the lawsuits “pending the outcome of any criminal proceedings.” The motion was filed this month by attorneys for inventor Dr. Steve Galella, his company, the Facial Beauty Institute and device manufacturer Johns Dental Laboratories, who said the investigation is being conducted “for the purpose of potentially bringing criminal charges” against their clients.