Woman arrested for unlicensed dental services in Raleigh

Ebony Nicohole McBean accused of taking thousands from patients at her company The Smiling Face

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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A 42-year-old woman named Ebony Nicohole McBean has been arrested in Raleigh, North Carolina for practicing dentistry without a license and obtaining property by false pretense. McBean operated a company called The Smiling Face Company where she allegedly provided dental services and orthodontic treatments to patients, taking thousands of dollars from them, before the company abruptly shut down in October 2025.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks to public health and safety when unlicensed individuals provide medical services. Patients who paid The Smiling Face Company for dental work are now left with uncertainty about their treatment and records, as well as the potential financial burden of having to seek care elsewhere.

The details

According to the report, warrants for McBean's arrest were initially issued in November 2025, but she was not arrested until this past Friday. The Smiling Face Company shut its doors in October 2025, just one day after notifying patients. Patients had reportedly paid thousands of dollars to the company for braces and other dental work, but were unable to get answers about refunds, future service, or access to their patient records after the abrupt closure.

  • Warrants for McBean's arrest were issued on Nov. 12, 2025.
  • The Smiling Face Company shut its doors in October 2025, just one day after notifying patients.

The players

Ebony Nicohole McBean

A 42-year-old woman accused of providing dental services without a license and taking thousands of dollars from patients through her company The Smiling Face Company.

The Smiling Face Company

A dental services company operated by Ebony Nicohole McBean that allegedly provided unlicensed dental work and orthodontic treatments to patients before abruptly shutting down in October 2025.

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The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of ensuring medical professionals are properly licensed and regulated to protect public health and safety. Patients who received treatment from unlicensed providers may now face significant challenges in continuing or correcting their dental work, underscoring the need for stronger oversight in the healthcare industry.