Oppositions to a Potential Pediatric Dental Anesthesia Law Exist

Two years ago, six-year-old, Caleb Sears went to the dentist to get a tooth pulled. Sears was sedated and never woke up. Eliza Sears, Caleb’s mother explained that after she had information about his brain and talked to neurologists, she realized he was let go.

Caleb’s dentist failed to properly provide him with general anesthesia. For this reason, a law known as Caleb’s Law is being considered. Caleb’s law would require the presence of an anesthesiologist at the dentist office whenever dentists need to put children under. Dentists and other opponents believe that Caleb’s Law would lead to delays in treatment in Denti-Ca, which is a state dental program for families with low incomes.

Dr. Ariane Terlet, a Bay Area dentist told lawmakers about a child that lost their life because they did not receive dental care in a timely manner. She states that the child was only four and his death could’ve been prevented if he received dental care at the right time. When asked for more details on this death, Terlet failed to comment.

Oral surgeons oppose Caleb’s Law as well. Dr. Jeffrey Elo of the Association for Oral Surgeons explained that this law will fail to make procedures safer. Instead, he believes that it will make it difficult for children, especially the poor ones who are afraid of dentists to receive the care they need.

Dr. Kenneth Pierson, the owner of a dental surgery practice near Fresno stated that 95 percent of his patents are on Denti-Ca and every patient still receives a dentist and anesthesiologist. He and his son, Dr. Jeremy Pierson explained that their office proves that Caleb’s law will not hurt Denti-Ca. Both Kenneth and Jeremy Pierson are firm believers that a separate dentist and anesthesiologist is the safest way for children to receive general anesthesia from dentists.

They explain that the opposition to the law exists because oral surgeons who perform dental procedures as well as general anesthesia get paid for both jobs and fear that Caleb’s law will decrease their pay.

In an upcoming Senate meeting, Caleb’s Law will be voted on. Although Caleb’s family is hopeful that it passes, they wouldn’t be surprised if it doesn’t because of all of the opposition.