#17

Except in a few instances, discussed below, in which open illicit practice is apparently tolerated or in which denturists have publicly announced their operations for the purpose of challenging applicable laws, non-dentists providing denture care do not do so openly, and therefore are not readily identifiable. Aside from fears of prosecution for law violation, many also provide legitimate dental laboratory services for the dental profession and quite realistically fear loss of patronage if they are identified as denturists or even merely as involved in the denturist movement. Not all who provide dentures directly to consumers are members of existing trade associations, nor are all members of these associations currently engaged in illicit practice. Despite these difficulties, there is evidence indicating that many non-dentists are currently providing satisfactory care to many consumers who would not otherwise obtain care.