The only dentist operating in Scott City will have his license to practice suspended for 30 days beginning next Friday.

Gary Riddle, 51, had been on a five-year probation that started Sept. 1, 2005, for ethical violations, including a conviction of spousal abuse and suspicion of use of a controlled substance. As part of his probation, Riddle was forced to undergo an evaluation by the Missouri Dental Board's professional renewal center for the first 60 days of his probation. The evaluators ordered that he submit to periodic drug tests and undergo treatment for a possible mental instability.

During the probationary period Riddle tested positive for Valium.

Brian Barnett, an investigator for the Missouri Dental Board, said that as part of Riddle's ongoing treatment he will be asked to undergo counseling and submit to random drug tests.

Barnett said another violation would not necessarily mean Riddle's license would be revoked. Riddle has held his license since 1983.

"If a licensee has his license disciplined and then violates the terms of that discipline, the board could hold a disciplinary hearing to address those violations," he said. "That could result in further discipline or, in the most extreme cases, revocation. It's really done on a case-by-case basis."

In March 2003, Riddle pleaded guilty to third-degree domestic assault of his wife, Elizabeth.

tgreaney@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 245