A viral video circulating on social media shows Santa Clarita dentist Dr. Harleen Grewal joking about treating patients differently based on their political beliefs. Dr. Grewal, known as the “MAGA Dentist,” made remarks about adjusting anesthetic for non-Trump supporters during a public presentation, sparking nationwide controversy.
Viral TikTok Shows Dentist Mocking Patients Over Politics
In the now-deleted TikTok video, Dr. Grewal delivers a presentation in which she mocks patients who disagree with her political stance. She refers to her “Wall of Fame” featuring photos of Republican leaders and Trump allies and says:
“I get patients that come into my office, and when they see the pictures, you’d think their butt was on fire. They jump off and take off as if Trump was coming in the room.”
She also joked about asking patients complaining about prices, “How’s Bidenomics working for you?” and expressed a preference for fewer Democrat patients during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Controversial Claim About “Cutting Back on Laughing Gas”
One of the most contentious statements came when Dr. Grewal said:
“I have a secret hat I use sometimes. It says, ‘Make your smile great again.’ I wear that when I work on my patients so when they look horrified or complain, I quietly cut back on the laughing gas and say, ‘You got this. It’s not as bad as you think it is.’”
This remark has drawn significant criticism and accusations of potential malpractice.
Who is Dr. Harleen Grewal: The MAGA Dentist
Dr. Grewal brands herself as the “MAGA Dentist”, prominently displaying her political support in both personal and professional channels. Her business, Skyline Smiles, features MAGA-inspired merchandise, slogans like “Drill Baby Drill,” and imagery associated with the Make America Great Again movement. She also frequently posts photos with Donald Trump, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Steve Hilton.
Public Backlash and Yelp Review Restrictions
Following the video’s viral spread, Dr. Grewal’s social media posts faced heavy criticism for perceived bias and unprofessional conduct. Yelp temporarily disabled reviews for her business due to “increased public attention” and potential misuse of the platform, encouraging genuine customers to return and share feedback later.
Grewal’s Response: “It Was Part of a Funny Speech”
In an interaction captured on social media, Dr. Grewal’s business page responded to criticism by stating, “It was part of a funny speech. If you don’t have a sense of humor you won’t understand,” and later told a critic to “go get a life.”
Speaking to KTLA, Dr. Grewal reiterated her comments were intended as humor and said she had been investigated and cleared by the California Dental Board.
Grewal’s Opinion Piece: Standing Against “Cancel Culture”
In a published opinion piece, Dr. Grewal said her “words were twisted” and her “career was targeted.” She described the backlash as an attempt at “cancel culture” because she “dares to think differently,” adding:
“When you stand up, speak out and make a difference, there are people who will try to tear you down. But here’s the truth: It only works if you let it. And I refuse to let it.”
California Dental Association Statement on the Incident
The California Dental Association issued a statement saying:
“The comments in this video, even if intended as humor, do not reflect the ethical standards of the dental profession.”
