For five years, federal investigators say the Sinaloa Cartel exploited dental laboratories to smuggle cocaine and fentanyl across borders.

Crowns, dentures, and bridges were allegedly manufactured with hollow cavities and packed with narcotics. Couriers carried the concealed drugs in their mouths, moving through checkpoints without triggering suspicion. In some cases, authorities believe unsuspecting patients may have received altered dental prosthetics containing contraband.

In November 2024, the Federal Bureau of Investigation moved to dismantle the operation.

This investigation breaks down:
• How dental labs were allegedly repurposed as smuggling hubs
• Why prosthetic devices avoided routine customs scrutiny
• How modified dental work crossed borders undetected
• What agents discovered inside seized crowns and bridges
• Why prosecutors argue healthcare systems were deliberately exploited

What do you think — should medical professionals involved in trafficking schemes face the harshest possible penalties?