A local dentist had his license suspended by the State Dental Board for a full year after he was caught on tape in a NewsChannel5 investigation, appearing to be practicing without a license.

The surveillance tape showed Dr. John Ball accepting new patients even though his license had expired after failing to take continuing education courses required by the dental board, reported NewsChannel5 investigator Ron Regan.

Ball admitted to the board that he was practicing without a license from January 2006 to September 2006.

The board's executive director, Lili C. Reitz, said Ball's failure to comply with state dental regulations can harm patients.

"Our primary job is to ensure that the public is protected and that it's being served by competent, professional, up-to-date, current licensees. And that's what continuing education is meant to do," Reitz said.

Ball still faces additional charges in Bedford Municipal Court, accused of practicing without a license earlier this year.

Warrensville Heights police also charged Ball and he has dropped his request for a jury trial.

Ball will be on probation for five years following his license suspension.