South River, NJ – A Novel Jersey woman is facing serious charges, including aggravated assault, after authorities say she posed as a licensed dentist and began a root canal procedure on a patient before abruptly stopping, leaving the individual in pain and seeking emergency care. Ana Amato, 49, of Old Bridge, was arrested on February 19, 2026, following a months-long investigation sparked by a routine dispute call.
The investigation began in September 2025 when South River police responded to a report of a disagreement between two individuals. During a follow-up, officers discovered information suggesting that dental procedures were being performed by someone not properly licensed, according to Police Chief Mark Tinitigan. This led to a deeper investigation, ultimately revealing the alleged fraudulent practice.
The patient, who has not been publicly identified, reportedly found Amato through an advertisement in a WhatsApp group chat and agreed to pay $1,000 for the root canal. On September 22, 2025, he arrived at Amato’s office at 30 Main Street in South River, where she allegedly administered an anesthetic and began drilling his tooth. However, Amato halted the procedure mid-treatment, telling the patient to return a week later. When he contacted Amato for an update, she informed him she could not complete the work and provided a list of licensed dentists in the area, according to police reports.
Upon returning to retrieve a $300 deposit, the patient was refused a refund, leading to an altercation. He subsequently sought medical attention, presenting at police headquarters still bleeding and with gauze in his mouth, prompting Amato’s arrest. The South River Police Department executed a Superior Court-authorized search warrant at Amato’s office, seizing evidence related to the case.
Charges Filed Against Ana Amato
Amato is now charged with second-degree aggravated assault, which carries a potential prison sentence of five to ten years. She likewise faces third-degree charges of unlawful practice of dentistry and financial facilitation of criminal activity, according to a press release from the South River Police Department. The case highlights the growing concern of individuals offering medical services without proper credentials, often advertised through social media platforms.
“What began as a routine dispute call demonstrated exactly why thorough police work matters,” Chief Tinitigan stated. “Sgt. Roselli and Officer Szukics recognized that something did not add up and took the extra steps necessary to protect the public.” Detective Patrick Molina, Detective Sergeant Kenneth Nale, and Detective Travis Taylor were instrumental in gathering evidence and securing the charges against Amato.
The investigation revealed that Amato was operating a dental practice without the necessary licenses or qualifications. Patch.com reported that the investigation spanned several months, culminating in the search warrant and Amato’s arrest on February 19th.
This case underscores the importance of verifying the credentials of healthcare providers before seeking treatment. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry offers resources for verifying a dentist’s license and reporting suspected illegal practice.
The South River Police Department is urging anyone with additional information related to this case to contact Detective Molina at 732-254-9002 ext. 113. The investigation remains active and ongoing.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. This proves essential to consult with a qualified and licensed healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
This developing story will be updated as more information becomes available. Share your thoughts and concerns in the comments below.
