11.06.90 - 06.26.96

Sacramento, CA

Benjamin Shimshock was a healthy five-year old boy with a few troublesome teeth. When his parents brought him in for routine cavity care, the dentist suggested sedation because the little guy kept gagging. Ben’s parents questioned the drastic measure, but were assured that the office was able to handle the procedure under the care of an oral surgeon.

However, on June 26, 1996, amidst the clanking of metal and the chaotic commotion, Benjamin’s mother watched through a slip in the blinds while the doctors performed CPR on her son. Hours later, Benjamin died of respiratory failure linked to a reaction to the sedation. The reported negligence is this case is astounding: Ben was given a lethal dose of drugs by the oral surgeon. His vital signs were not appropriately monitored. Upon discovery that the boy had stopped breathing, the surgeon failed to respond with the necessary life-saving measures.

Nicole Shimshock, Benjamin’s mother, stated, “Had he been in competent hands, my son would be alive today. He went in to have cavities filled and now he’s dead. That’s not supposed to happen.” This blatant truth clearly describes the problem. Many dental offices are incompetent to handle this level of care. Without training, preparation, and planning, these young lives are at great risk; and for many, death is the price paid. Benjamin’s death was foreseeable and preventable; this is unacceptable.

For more information:
Boy, 5, Dies of Heart Failure During Dental Procedure
Boy’s fatality after anesthesia leads to charges of negligence
2 Children Die During Routine Dental Procedures
Going to the Dentist