CSPD Fall Bulletin 2025 by CA SPD

BULLETIN

CALIFORNIA

8 Reduce Your Dental Footprint 12 CSPD Public Policy Committee is Active

18 Sedation Permit Changes in CA: The Impact of SB501

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FALL 2025

TABLE of CONTENTS IN THIS ISSUE Volume 53 | Number 2

DR. CHANEL MCCREEDY - BULLETIN MANAGING EDITOR

4 President's Message

6 Annual Meeting News

CSPD Public Policy Committee is Active

18 Sedation Permit Changes in CA: The Impact of SB501 AAPD Western Trustee Report

2025 CSPD Interns

26 Board Motions

27 Elected and Appointed Leadership

Members are invited and encouraged to contribute to the CSPD Bulletin. Articles of general or specific interest, Letters to the Editor, and commentary on issues of public policy and matters of pediatric oral health are welcome. Items intended for publication may be submitted to Managing Editor Dr. Chanel McCreedy at chanel.mccreedy@gmail.com or to admin@cspd.org

The mission of the Bulletin of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry is to communicate with members on issues affecting the specialty of Pediatric Dentistry and the oral health of infants, children, and adolescents. The Bulletin will provide information on Society activities, initiatives, governance, and member services, as well as information and notice of the accomplishments and actions of its members.

The views and opinions expressed by individual members in articles and commentaries are those of the author and do not necessarily represent policy or viewpoint of the California Society of Pediatric Dentistry.

THE STORY OF AN ORGANIZATION THAT PERSEVERES

Dr. MyLinh Ngo - CSPD President

“Mama, can you tell the story of how you came to America?” Bedtime for my kids has been a mix of books and stories about my childhood. They’d giggle and delight at the funny adventures and trouble my siblings and I would get into, the hourlong bus ride from East San Diego to school where I was the only Vietnamese kid, and of course their favorite - how the day we arrived in the US was also the day I turned a year old.

Storytelling affords us the ability to connect with others, learn, as well as frame and reflect on pivotal moments in time. The words "chịu khó” were often spoken growing up; they mean: endure hardship. With the current turmoil and uncertainty we're experiencing: Medi-cal cuts, disregard for the scientific process, marginalization of health experts, rollback of years of public health wins, I've leaned into stories from the past to help move through these unsettling times with resourcefulness and grit.

Organizational Transition

We completed the administrative change from a single Executive Director model to reunite with the exceptional Smith Moore and Associates (SMA) association management company. Our partnership with SMA started in 2012 with the founder, Catherine Smith, who has had over a decade of experience working alongside the CSPD. With a leaner organization formalized by Don Schmitt and Mitch Poisett, the CSPD is in good hands to grow in value for its members and ensure continued, sustained success.

Melissa Feltz is the Administrative Director and serves as the primary bridge between SMA and CSPD leadership. She has a passion for service and skillfully manages a team of 5 account specialists dedicated to CSPD’s day-to-day operations, governance, accounting, technology, and graphic design of the Bulletin. If you experienced any trouble getting through to the board during the Summer, rest assured that all phone lines and email accounts have been tested and are back up and running.

Technology

Efforts are ongoing with the new website. We have narrowed down two platforms which are being tested to make sure all integrations meet our top three priorities:

1. Easy to use - simple to navigate and find what you need with the fewest clicks.

2. Streamlined processes - a single sign in to access memberonly content, register for the annual meeting, retrieve CE certificates, and view CSPD’s extensive library of online CE.

3. Maximum functionality - visits to CSPD.org spikes a couple times a year. The new site will garner more traffic and serve as a year-round resource for members to quickly find pediatric-focused updates on legislation, education, and patient safety issues.

Advocacy

From June - August, CSPD’s Public Policy Advocate Evelyne Vu-Tien attended a multitude of legislative events ranging from community water fluoridation, school-based programs, to insurance reimbursement. Along with the committee, CSPD was present in over a dozen meetings this Summer and established critical inroads with key stakeholders in California. Evelyne is a dedicated representative of the society and has had a wide range of experience: as an owner of a successful private practice for over 15 years, an associate in a group practice, an active leader in several non-profit dental service organizations, and an attending clinical faculty at NYU-Langone-San Diego Site/San Ysidro Health. Education

Leslie Butler and the Annual meeting committee are hard at work preparing a fantastic educational and family friendly event at the cozy, tropical oasis in Hyatt Mission Bay, San Diego. Leslie has an incredible knack for hosting large events and her inaugural meeting will NOT disappoint. Laura McCormack and Jean Star have planned a much-anticipated webinar series of board required courses (dental practice act and infection control) for the coming Fall and Winter. The CSPD Foundation continues to support 2 vital internship programs which help identify and cultivate our future leaders. Save the date for a special Legislative Showcase on February 24, 2026, featuring their research topics:

1. Analysis and impact from 10 years of the Kindergarten oral health assessment forms

2. Patient safety database for sedation and GA

3. Oral health coordination between local health departments, state, and federal agencies

Patient Safety

In light of the death in Vista earlier this year, the board of directors recommended the CSPD stay proactive with information for members. Pardis Farhadian is leading the member services committee to produce a fact sheet regarding the safety and use of Nitrous oxide in dentistry. Plans are also underway to petition the California Society of Dental Anesthesiologists to prepare statements of fact and evidence-based research in regard to the safety and levels of nitrous oxide for kids in a closed vs. open system, as well as public service messaging to combat misinformation when the civil trial reopens the case.

SB501 severely limited the practice of pediatric oral sedation by requiring a new moderate sedation permit if providers gave more than one drug for sedation. Initial discussions are taking place to approach the legislature to make amendments to this law and will take a few years to take hold. In parallel, a formal request to help mitigate this

issue was sent to the DBC to make the following regulatory changes which are within their power:

• to recognize PEARS (Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition and Stabilization) as an acceptable equivalent course to PALS for the additional support personnel

• to give consideration to pediatric dentists to qualify as examiners for on-site inspection and evaluation

The board is busy working on many fronts! We are facing similar challenges that were hard fought from the past, along with new ones: doubts on fluoride supplements, PFAS ‘forever chemicals’, claims of lead in toothpaste in social media... Instead of waiting for the storm to pass or ignore the events unfolding, we need to stand up for science and protect the integrity of our profession, to tell a story of triumph - how we worked to preserve the ability to provide better access to optimal oral health care for kids.

PEARS IS MORE PRACTICAL TRAINING FOR DENTAL ASSISTANTS THAN PALS

PEARS = Pediatric Emergency Assessment, Recognition, and Stabilization

PALS = Pediatric Advanced Life Support

Current regulations regarding the administration of moderate sedation require both the operating dentist and one additional support personnel to have PALS certification. According to the American Heart Association (AHA): PALS training ‘is geared towards personnel in emergency medicine, intensive care, critical care units and healthcare providers who respond to emergencies in infants and children’, and PEARS ‘is for healthcare providers who might encounter pediatric emergency situations during their work’. Both courses are offered through the AHA and are based on rigorous resuscitation science and research. The PEARS course is more appropriate for dental assistants because it emphasizes critical skills focused on airway management and rescue. Moreover, the AAPD and Committee on Sedation and Anesthesia endorse PEARS training for dental auxiliaries because it prepares providers to provide appropriate lifesaving interventions within the initial minutes of response and adheres to the joint guidelines by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and AAPD for monitoring and managing pediatric patients during and after sedation.

SAILING TOWARDS HEALTHY SMILES!

Dr. Leslie Butler - Annual Meeting Chair

California Society of Pediatric Dentistry (CSPD), with support by the Western Society of Pediatric Dentistry, is proud to host the 2026 Annual Meeting, March 12-15, at the Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina, in sunny San Diego.

Event Highlights

CSPD invites pediatric dental professionals across California, and the country, to join a dynamic and familyforward Annual Meeting designed to balance educational demand with fun, inclusive experiences and events. Attendees can anticipate:

• A keynote-packed program with engaging lectures and continuing education credits

• Opportunities for research presentations, networking, and skill building

• Spaces thoughtfully designed to support families alongside professionals with fun events for all in attendance every day

• A dynamic Dental Team Day (Friday) to support our staff and team around us

• A pre-conference course that can bring new advances to your practice hosted by SPRIG

Venue & Accommodations

The annual meeting will be held at the stunning Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina. The venue offers:

• Spectacular panoramic views of Mission Bay and the Pacific

• On-site amenities like pools, water slides, Marina access, and beach proximity – perfect for families to enjoy beyond conference hours

• Pet friendly features – including accommodations for guests traveling with service animals

Important Registration & Logistics

• Registration for both attendees and exhibitor/sponsors will open soon on the website

• Book your room by February 16, 2026 for discounted rates

• Plan ahead to bring your dental team with you for our Dental Team Day of CE just for them

• Look forward to receiving our “know before you go,” with active links to so many fun activities in the surrounding area: the world famous San Diego Zoo, Safari Park, SeaWorld, USS Midway, and Belmont Park to name a few

Looking Forward

This conference is set to be an enriching mix of professional education and family fun – set against San Diego’s gorgeous Mission Bay backdrop. It’s an ideal mix for pediatric dentists who want to grow their practice, connect with peers, and create lasting memories for their loved ones. Follow along at cspd.org for all the updates on the conference agenda, speaker announcements, and to register. And don’t forget, bring your office team along this year for our amazing dental team day!!!

See you in sunny San Diego.

REDUCE YOUR DENTAL FOOTPRINT

Dr. Stephanie Hardwick, Mt. Tam Pediatric Dentistry and Co-Founder of PEARL tubeless toothpaste

Dr. Chanel McCreedy, Bulletin Managing Editor

Prior to dental school, much of my education was in environmental studies and conservation. As a result, my first days in clinic shocked my system. I was not prepared for the amount of plastic, waste and garbage that is a part of proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection control in the practice of dentistry. Plastic barriers, disposable materials, sterilization bags, and gloves upon gloves upon gloves. Of course, PPE and infection control are top priorities for any dental practice. Is there a way to be more environmentally friendly while also being true to these top priorities? Dr. Stephanie Hardwick (UCLA 2010, NYU 2012) of Mt Tam Pediatric Dentistry in Corte Madera, CA has found a way to balance these priorities for our pediatric patients, both in the practice and at home.

By Dr. Stephanie Hardwick, Practicing Dentist and Co-Founder of PEARL

Like Dr. McCreedy—and probably one reason we clicked so quickly in dental school—I’ve always been bothered by the plastic and waste in dentistry. Raised by a mom who embraced the “recycle and reuse” lifestyle of the ’70s and composted long before it was trendy, minimizing waste has always felt natural to me.

In dental school wearing what felt like a Darth Vader costume for a dental exam, only to toss it all in the trash minutes later, never sat right with me. While I understood the necessity, I also knew that if a better way ever existed, I’d take it.

Fast forward 10 years to a time when environmental responsibility is no longer optional—dental professionals are now uniquely positioned to make real, positive change. From single-use plastics to energyintensive equipment, traditional dentistry has a major ecological footprint. So when I opened my practice in 2021, I made values-driven choices to deliver care that’s high-quality, efficient, and environmentally responsible—a balance I knew was possible.

Thanks to innovation in our field, being an eco-conscious dentist is more achievable than ever—without compromising safety, performance, or patient outcomes.

Here’s what I’ve done to reduce my footprint in dentistry:

Reevaluating Materials and Supplies

The first step in creating a more sustainable practice is reevaluating the materials we use every day! Biodegradable suction tips, autoclavable stainless steel options vs singleuse plastic, instrument cassettes vs sterilization pouches, and compostable patient bibs are now widely available and perform just as well as their traditional counterparts. In restorative dentistry, composite resins and ceramics with lower environmental impact can be selected without compromising aesthetics or durability. Even impression materials now come in recyclable cartridges or refillable containers, reducing landfill waste.

Rethinking Packaging and Delivery

Many suppliers now offer bulk purchasing or refill programs to reduce excessive packaging. Using refillable glass spray bottles lined in a silicone sleeve, pod style disinfecting solution, and bamboo paper towels is a great alternative to the hundreds of Cavi wipes we all use daily. Opting for vendors committed to sustainable manufacturing and shipping practices ensures the impact of our supply chain is minimized as well. Method Procurement (www.methodusa.com) provides a user-friendly platform that assists with not only getting the best price on the market but also streamlining inventory management and ordering. Selecting digital impression systems over physical ones can also reduce the need for shipping plaster models and unnecessary disposables.

Energy Efficiency and Waste Reduction

Simple upgrades—like LED operatory lights, programmable thermostats, motion detecting lighting, and water-saving devices—can reduce a clinic’s energy and water usage significantly. A win for the environment and your bottom line! Proper segregation of medical versus general waste can also prevent recyclable materials from being unnecessarily incinerated.

Modern Practice Management with integrated Patient Engagement

Many, if not all practices, have gone digital, however, even a green, digital practice can waste a lot of paper. As an associate, I recall often using a digital practice management system where we still used multiple sheets of paper to chart chairside, then manually transferred the information into the digital practice management system, printed a patient report on yet another piece of paper—only to shred it all afterward. It was inefficient, time-consuming, and prone to transfer errors.

Today, there are incredible practice management systems—and add-on integrations for less modern setups—that allow you to run your entire practice digitally, without using a single piece of paper. These tools make your workflow ultra-efficient, organized, and more sustainable.

In my own practice, I am known as the “post-it” police. My staff knows if I see a post-it they’ll get an endearing eye-roll and a “put it in an IRIS please” from me (IRIS is our internal digital messaging system). And when asked for a receipt, the front team politely responds “Do you mind if I email that to you?” with which we receive a “That’d be great!” 99% of the time. These modern systems can be expensive but the cost is quickly recouped through efficiency, reduced waste, and smart, sustainable practices.

Eco-Innovation Without Compromise

What’s most important to remember is this: sustainability and clinical excellence are not mutually exclusive. Today’s eco-conscious products are designed with both patient safety and environmental responsibility in mind. By prioritizing solutions that are both effective and earth-friendly, we not only improve oral health but also help protect the planet for future generations.

Leading by Example

As healthcare providers, we influence our teams, patients, and communities. Encouraging the use of eco-friendly home care items: bamboo toothbrush, recyclable electric toothbrushes, reusable flossers (we love the CoCo Reflosser) and my personal fave PEARL Scientific’s new FDA-approved fluoride toothpaste tablets (toothpaste tubes are one of the biggest contributors to landfill! Check out my latest passion project PEARL Tubeless Toothpaste), as well as providing biodegradable goody bags, non-plastic toys/prizes and nutritional counseling that includes the benefits of eating real, whole foods versus single-package snacks and keeping a stainless steel water bottle nearby ALWAYS! We become a model for habits that benefit both our bodies and our planet.

When patients see their dentist making thoughtful choices—from recommending eco-friendly home care options to fully digital forms and charting—they’re often inspired to adopt sustainable habits in their own lives. In this way, dentistry can become a platform for broader environmental advocacy.

Eco-conscious dentistry is not just a trend—it’s a responsibility. With intentional choices and a commitment to innovation, we can reduce our footprint without sacrificing quality, safety, or care. Sustainability starts chairside. Let’s lead the way.

FINANCIAL REPORT OF THE CSPD

Dr. Shan Girn, Treasurer

It has been slightly more than one year since I took over as Treasurer from Dr. Gary D. Sabbadini who successfully managed the financial health of CSPD for many years. I am happy to report that CSPD is in good shape financially. Total assets were ($1,206,589) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. Through careful planning and budgeting, CSPD managed to increase its assets which is a testament to the hard work of everyone on the CSPD Board. This has allowed us to avoid dues increases and keep the Annual Meeting registration fees steady. We anticipate that the costs to run the society will continue to increase and are working to increase our non-dues revenue.

Investments. Following the Financial Policy outlined in the Policy and Procedure Manual, many of CSPD’s assets are in fixed return products. These include both money market accounts and certificate of deposit accounts. The Budget and Finance Committee regularly discusses the status of CSPD investments.

The committee has strategically capitalized on rising interest rates by investing in a laddered portfolio of Certificates of Deposit (CDs), yielding returns between 3.5% and 5% APY over the past two years and generating over $28,000 in earnings.

In addition, since January 2022, a portion of our reserves has been professionally invested and managed to capitalize on the potential for higher market returns. I’m pleased to report that since its inception, this investment has generated over $73,000 in earnings for our reserves.

Reserve Fund. CSPD’s Policy and Procedure Manual requires a Reserve Fund equal to the average of the past two years' operating expenses. With the current mandate set at $640,416, CSPD is exceeding this requirement. The Reserve Fund requirement has increased year over year, driven by rising operating expenses associated with the Annual Meeting and the addition of an association management company.

Membership has historically been our primary source of income and CSPD is constantly seeking ways to maintain and grow our membership numbers. However, the goal is not to rely on membership dues alone to support the functions of the society.

Non-Dues Revenue (NDR) is the other avenue by which CSPD generates income and has been established to try to develop ways to increase income. The NDR committee, under the direction of Dr. Cheryl Willet is working with the chairs of Annual Meeting, Communications and Bulletin, Website, Online Continuing Education (OCE) to explore and implement different avenues to increase revenue from non-dues sources.

Online Continuing Education (OCE) Under the direction Dr. Helen Mo as the Chair of OCE, the redesigned CSPD OCE platform is seeing increased sales both nationally and worldwide. Individuals can now buy an entire Annual Meeting bundle, a sedation bundle that satisfies the CE requirements to re-certify for a Minimal or Moderate sedation license, or single lectures. This platform helps support CSPD as a Non-Dues Revenue source, so please consider it when looking for your next online CE course! Visit www.cspd.org/oce if you haven’t already!

While the CSPD Annual Meeting is intended to be revenueneutral within the annual budget, it also serves as a valuable benefit to members. Through the incredible efforts of the Annual Meeting Committee (AMC), historically chaired by Dr. Oariona Lowe, the Annual Meeting has made a profit year over year, which has helped to increase the amount held in CSPD’s reserves. Under the leadership of our new AMC Chair, Dr. Leslie Butler, we anticipate another outstanding Annual Meeting in San Diego, and are optimistic that it will also be financially successful. If you are planning on attending, please register early to guarantee a spot! If you have any questions about CSPD finances or have any suggestions on ways to increase non-dues revenue, please feel free to contact me.

As of 06/30/2025

CSPD PUBLIC POLICY COMMITTEE IS ACTIVE

Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien, DDS, MBA-Public

Policy Advocate

The past quarter has been active for CSPD’s Advocacy and Public Policy Committee. CDA/CSPD Advocacy Day was well attended, and Rebecca Renelus, DDS will grace us with her summary in this edition of the Bulletin. With looming threats to statewide water fluoridation, potential FDA ban on fluoride supplements, and legislative shifts impacting access to care, we have worked closely with the California Dental Association (CDA) and public health leaders to safeguard children’s oral health.

CSPD has been involved with the California Partnership for Oral Health, led by Ms. Mary McCune, J.D., Director of Public Policy from the California Dental Association, and Dr. Shakalpi Pendurkar, DDS, MPH, California State Dental Director, which meets on a bi-monthly basis to improve the oral health of Californians through the combined efforts of community, state, and regional leaders. Among the topics discussed was the collection of Kindergarten Oral Health Assessment Forms (KOHA) and the importance of continued data collection to assess the untreated decay in children, as well as the barriers that prevent families from seeking a dental screening. Discussions

were also underway to create emergency room diversion programs via telehealth, particularly in Siskiyou County, which experiences the most significant number of dental emergencies. A school dental work group has been established to encourage screening, provision of preventive services, and implementation of a referral system for restorative services as well as proper reimbursement for dental providers involved.

On June 11, CSPD was present at the California Department of Public Health Strategic Fluoride Meeting to collaborate with national leaders in public health, water fluoridation, dentistry, and community advocacy. Featured speakers included ADA President Brett Kessler, DDS, Jayanth Kumar, DDS, MPH, former CA State Dental Director. Current fluoride trends were discussed, including 15 of 20 states able to halt rollback bills despite setbacks of Utah and Florida losing their battle with removing fluoride from their water systems. President of the American Fluoridation Society, Johnny Johnson, Jr., DMD, MS, emphasized grassroots involvement with customizable messaging easily understood by audiences. Success stories from New York were hailed as progressive when they enacted policy safeguards with mandatory public notifications and grant funding tied to fluoridation discontinuation. New York’s program highlighted sustainable efforts when compelling cost-savings and greater public health returns were broadcast. Kentucky spoke about the intricacies of fluoride water system monitoring, operator training, and creating a collaborative framework between water utilities, public health regulatory bodies, laboratories, and professional associations to ensure longevity of its program.

California’s weaknesses were drawn out in comparison; having 84 optimally fluoridated systems and 77 partially fluoridated ones, as well as an absence of a state-level early notification requirement

for discontinuation, leaves its citizens vulnerable and lacks sustainability. Approximately 58% of Californians have access to fluoridated water. Areas of concern where fluoridation of water is being challenged are currently Oroville and Olivenhain (part of San Diego). A comprehensive response strategy was determined. The vision is to create coalitions involving the State Water Board, CDA, community health workers, and policy makers to establish a robust working group that ensures optimal oral health for all.

On June 13th, CSPD President MyLinh Ngo, DMD, and Evelyne Vu-Tien, DDS, MBA- PPA, were honored to attend the Interdisciplinary Affairs Forum held by Max Martinez, DDS, CDA President and Chair. Ms. Allison Sandman, Chief Legal Officer at CDA, described CDA’s ongoing campaign to “Fix Our Dental Insurance” to raise awareness about the lack of mandates and standards in dental insurance, emphasizing the need to describe dental insurance as a type of utilization of benefits rather than a type of insurance that patients believe will cover all services. Ms. Ann Milar, Director of CDA’s Practice Support and Policy, highlighted over 4,500 yearly issues resolved over phone calls and emails regarding regulatory compliance and dental insurance, were the leading concerns. The top issues were fraud, cybersecurity, and audits. Other notable topics include the CE credits for wellness topics, ongoing fluoride advocacy, and staffing challenges.

On June 18th, CSPD was represented by Evelyne Vu-Tien, DDS, MBA, at the Olivenhain Board Meeting, where the topic of removing fluoride from their community water system was discussed. Ms. Tooka Zokaie, MPH, MAS, CPH, CDA, Senior Health Policy Analyst, and Howard Pollick, BDS, MPH, and former Chair of the CA Fluoridation Advisory Committee, were in attendance. Dr. Vu-Tien spoke from a professional and personal viewpoint and emphasized the case of Calgary, a province in Canada that decided to reintroduce fluoride back into its water systems 10 years after its removal. The reason? There was a staggering uptick in children needing full mouth rehabilitation under general anesthesia and emergency room visits for children with dental abscesses. There was no opposition at the time, and future public board meetings will be held if the removal of fluoride from their water system becomes an action item.

On July 15th, the FDA held an open forum for public comment on the potential ban of fluoride supplementation. CSPD submitted an official comment expressing their deep concern regarding the removal of orally ingestible fluoride prescription products, detailing the deleterious impact the removal of systemic fluoride would have on children living in areas with suboptimal fluoridation. The letter stressed that untreated dental decay could lead to potential hospitalization, inability to focus in school, and inequitable pain and suffering in children. The letter espoused the benefits of systemic fluoride, strengthening the enamel of developing permanent dentition and reducing the overall economic burden on public health care.

On July 7th, Santos Cortez, DDS, Director of CDA Foundation, Past CSPD President, and CSPD Legislative Affairs Consultant, provided testimony at the Metropolitan Water District about his 48 years of clinical private practice in Long Beach, caring for Vietnamese and Cambodian immigrant children and how their oral health had drastically improved since the advent of optimally fluoridated water since 1971. He touted the fiscal implications and cost savings, resulting in less emergency room impact and IV antibiotics. Dr. Cortez also touched on fluorosis and that it is non-existent in Southern California, as the water systems will titrate levels to the appropriate and safe amount.

CSPD COLLABORATES WITH CDA TO SUPPORT LEGISLATION FOR STAKEHOLDERS

CSPD is working closely with the CDA to ensure our pediatric dentists, patients, and all stakeholders are protected. These are the following major bills and priorities CSPD is supporting:

AB 350 – EXPANSION OF FLUORIDE VARNISH ACCESS

(CDA CO-SPONSORED)

CDA successfully advanced Assembly Bill 350, authored by Asm. Mia Bonta (D-Oakland), which expands insurance and Medi-Cal coverage for fluoride varnish applications up to age 21. This legislation emphasizes fluoride varnish as a costeffective preventive tool, enabling delivery in schools, clinics, and even home-based visits. By increasing the accessibility of preventive fluoride treatment, the goal is to reduce the incidence of caries and improve overall health outcomes.

SB 351 – PRIVATE EQUITY IN HEALTH CARE (CDA CO-SPONSORED)

This bill, authored by Senator Christopher Cabaldon (D-West Sacramento), strengthens California’s ban on the corporate practice of dentistry and medicine by restricting private equity interference in clinical decision-making. Provisions prohibit patient quotas, time limits, controlling patient volume, treatment, and diagnostic/test restrictions that compromise care for private equity’s financial gain. The bill intends to safeguard patient care and to ensure that medical decisions remain clinician-led.

SB 386 – VIRTUAL CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS (CDA CO-SPONSORED)

This bill is authored by Sen. Monique Lion (D-Santa Barbara). Dentists frequently face steep transaction fees (up to 10%) when insurers pay via virtual credit cards. SB 386 requires transparency, opt-in authorization, and prohibits default feebased payments, thereby protecting practice sustainability. Historically, when dental practices opt out of VCC services, the process can be tedious and not consistently permanent. During the process, the payment method can be delayed, resulting in an overall increase in administrative costs and delays in reimbursements. The bill plans to require that the default payment method should not include a fee, and that a dentist who would prefer to use VCCs as their primary form of payment should agree to it by way of written authorization with the ability to opt out at any time. The bill will stress transparency and clear written notice.

(CDA CO-SPONSORED)

In response to staffing shortages, AB 873 creates a 90-day window to complete mandatory infection control courses after hire and permits virtual course formats, streamlining the onboarding of dental assistants. Currently, newly hired unlicensed dental assistants must complete an 8-hour infection control program in person before working. In rural communities and underserved areas, in-person infection control courses can be challenging to find and travel to, which can lead to hiring delays and potential assistants seeking other occupations. Asm. Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) authored this bill, which repeals the immediate timing requirement and establishes a 90-day window for completing the 8-hour infection control course. In addition, the bill would direct the board to approve virtual course formats to create greater accessibility for potential new staff hires.

DENTAL BOARD OF CALIFORNIA MEETING

The California Dental Board of CA Meeting was held on August 14, 2025, and Evelyne Vu-Tien, DDS, MBA- PPA was in attendance. There is a current search for a new executive officer for the dental board, and 38 applications have been received by June. Outreach has been initiated to the seven deans of California dental schools to strengthen collaboration. Currently, Ms. Christy Bell reported that the majority of licensure applications are processed within 30 days. Most notable was Ms. Tooka Zokaie, MPH, who mentioned asking that Bill AB 873 not come to completion until a boardapproved 8-hour online infection control course was available to improve accessibility for potential dental assistants in rural and remote areas with limited access to in-person courses. Public comments were introduced that would alleviate access to care issues and improve the overall public oral health. One proposal was to increase dental providers in underserved areas, such as expansion of licensure pathways to ease workforce shortages while maintaining high CODA standards of education or creating a pilot program with accredited schools. The following CA Dental Board Meeting will take place on November 6-7.

PEDODONTIST

(Pediatric Dentist)

Columbia Valley Community Health (CVCH) is growing! CVCH is a dynamic, progressive community health center with locations in Wenatchee, East Wenatchee, and Chelan. We have an excellent opportunity for a Pedodontist (Pediatric Dentist) at our Wenatchee location.

The Pedodontist (Pediatric Dentist) provides professional dental care, emergency dental treatment and oral hygiene to the patients of Columbia Valley Community Health (CVCH), including all relevant and required chart documentation.

Must Apply at CVCH.ORG

Position Requirements:

• Graduation from an accredited dental school with a DDS or DMD degree, and/or completion with a certificate from a CODA accredited dental residency program.

• Graduation from an accredited pediatric dental residency program.

• Washington State Dental License or eligibility to obtain licensure in the state of WA and current DEA with no restrictions and in good standing. Maintain documentation of all WAC requirements including continuing education and any other requirements accordingly. Pediatric Advanced Life Support, “PALS” certification.

• Providers must be eligible for enrollment in Medicare and must not be currently opted out of the Medicare program.

• One or more years of experience as a clinical dentist preferred, especially in a community or public health setting.

We are located in the heart of Washington State where we enjoy abundant recreational opportunities, 300 days of sunshine and a family friendly environment with good schools and opportunities for the entire family to be involved in culture and arts.

CVCH offers:

• Competitive Compensation

• Up to $50,000.00 sign on & relocation bonus

• Flexible schedules

• Generous paid leave/holidays

• Health insurance stipend offered for employee and dependents

• Gym/fitness stipend

• Retirement with 150% employer matching

• A cultural immersion program in a predominantly Spanish-speaking country

• This position is eligible for student loan repayment programs

Why Work at CVCH:

CVCH staff are more engaged in their work than 95% of similar organizations across the country. We are proud to have such dedicated staff serving patients, day in and day out.

To learn more about the position, salary, full details on benefits, and to apply, visit us at www.cvch.org and click on the Employment and Training tab and find the position you are interested in learning more about.

CSPD AND CDA AT ADVOCACY DAY

Dr. Rebecca Renelus, Public Policy Committee Member

This past June, five pediatric dental residents and four practicing pediatric dentists in CSPD participated in CSPD/ CDA’s Advocacy Day. This day entailed a brief meeting with CDA with the primary goal of learning the up to date bills and laws that are being passed through the Senate and Assembly committees, as well as the process on how bills work within the state level.

Groups were then formed based on residence and practice location, and divided into a SoCal group or NorCal group. Each group was assigned to different senators and assembly members in their respective districts. CDA provided talking points and background information about the five bills we were advocating for.

Medi-Cal Dental Budget

• The Medi-Cal dental program has made historic progress since the passage of Prop 56: 27% increase in new dental office visits by Medi-Cal patients over the past five years and 34% increase in the number of Medi-Cal dental providers across the state. Fifteen million patients rely on Medi-Cal for health services. We urged legislators to fully remove the Medi-Cal Dental cuts from the future budget actions.

AB350: Fluoride Varnish Coverage

• This bill would require health insurance plans and MediCal to cover fluoride varnish application for children under 21 and would expand Medi-Cal coverage for fluoride varnish to a variety of settings such as home visits and school-based programs.

SB386: Virtual Credit Card Payments

• This bill would require that the default payment method cannot include a fee and requires plans to notify dentists of alternative payment methods, how to select

a payment method, and any associated fees. Last year’s bill was vetoed, thus, in response, SB386 will not apply if a contract specifically addresses payment methods.

SB351: Private Equity in Health Care

• This bill would strengthen the current ban on the corporate practice of dentistry and medicine. It would, for example, prohibit patient quotas and limits on time spent with patients, as well as prohibit private equity and hedge funds from interfering in treatment plans, referrals, and selections of equipment and diagnostic tests. Overall, this bill ensures patient needs and dentists’ clinical judgement come first, and that private equity interests are not influencing decisions about health care.

AB873: Dental Assistant Infection Control Training

• Currently newly hired dental assistants must complete an 8-hour infection control course in person before starting work in a dental office. This, however, poses limitations and causes significant delays especially in rural and underserved areas. Thus, AB873 would establish a 90-day window after hiring for individuals to complete the 8-hour course, as well as have the Dental Board approve virtual course formats.

Many of the participants felt that the assembly members and senators were supportive and receptive to our cause and advocacy. Many were already supportive and champions of the bills we were advocating for, such as Assembly Member Dawn Addis and Assembly Member Damon Connolly, who had previously written a letter of support to their fellow assembly members to help pass certain bills. Other individuals felt that some of the assembly members or senators had already made up their minds about the bill and which way they were voting, but were still supportive and would ask thorough questions to highlight any concerns or hesitations.

Overall CDA/CSPD Advocacy Day allowed the residents time to interact with their assembly members and senators, see the importance of advocacy, and see how it impacts one’s daily lives and dental practice. Many felt the impact of policy making firsthand as well as how one can be actively involved within CSPD to make a difference not only for our profession but for the thousands of families and individuals we serve. Overall, the residents saw this opportunity as an enriching experience allowing them to engage with their local policy members and become leaders in their own community, advocating for their patients and practices.

A Special Thank You to:

Assembly Member Lisa Calderon

Assembly Member Sade Elhawary

Senator Bob Archuleta

Senator Akilah Weber Pierson

Assembly Member Damon Connolly

Assembly Member Dawn Addis

Senator Christopher Cabaldon

Senator Josh Becker

Dr. MyLinh Ngo

Dr. Natalie Vander Kam

Dr. Rebecca Renelus

Dr. Santos Cortez

Dr. Aubrey Morrone

Dr. Carleen Tse

Dr. Jody Chiang

Dr. Maile Osborne

Dr. Helina Iyob-Tessema

Lawrence Gayden

Eric Dowdy

Our partners at CDA

SEDATION PERMIT CHANGES IN CA: THE IMPACT OF SB501

Dr. Daniel Aclan - 2024-2025 Warren Brandli Intern

For my Warren Brandli Internship project, I set out to examine the evolving guidelines for pediatric minimal and moderate sedation in California, focusing on the impact of Senate Bill 501 (SB 501). This legislation was introduced in response to a tragic case in 2015, in which a six-year-old boy passed away during a dental procedure under general anesthesia. The incident spurred sweeping changes in sedation regulations with the goal of

improving safety, especially for pediatric patients. SB 501, which took effect in January 2022, replaced outdated sedation permits with new ones that introduce stricter definitions, training, and monitoring requirements.

I explored how the traditional Oral Conscious Sedation for Minors (OCS-M) and Conscious Sedation (CS) permits have now been replaced with the Pediatric Minimal Sedation (PMS) and Moderate Sedation (MS) permits, respectively. For providers treating younger age groups, additional pediatric endorsements are required— one for patients aged 7 to 12 and another for those under 7. Each permit comes with its own set of rigorous criteria, including didactic training hours, clinical case experience, and certification in Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS). These requirements reflect a more standardized and cautious approach to sedation, especially in pediatric dental care.

Sedation Permit History | Conscious Sedation Permits

Sedation Permit History | Oral Conscious Sedation

Sedation Permit History | License by Population Type

Minimal and Moderate Sedation | 2022 - 2025

I also outlined the application and renewal processes for each permit, highlighting the administrative and financial challenges they pose. For example, obtaining a moderate sedation permit requires a $2,000 onsite inspection in addition to training and case documentation, making it particularly burdensome for smaller practices. New monitoring protocols now mandate that the operating dentist and additional trained personnel be present throughout sedation procedures, further raising the bar for compliance. While these efforts clearly prioritize patient safety, they also introduce significant logistical and economic hurdles for many practitioners.

To assess how these new regulations are being received at the local level, I reached out to 25 pediatric dental offices in San Diego County and distributed surveys to clinical attendings. The responses I received varied. Some providers welcomed the changes, citing improved patient safety and reduced personal liability by deferring sedation to anesthesiologists. Others expressed concerns that the new rules have discouraged them from offering sedation altogether, thereby limiting patient access and increasing the cost of care. Many found it difficult to meet the clinical case minimums required to qualify for the new permits, even in academic settings where sedation cases are more frequent.

In conclusion, while SB 501 represents a meaningful step forward in standardizing and improving pediatric sedation safety, it also raises important questions about access, feasibility, and long-term sustainability. Permit issuance data show a clear decline since the new regulations took effect, suggesting that many providers are opting out of sedation services. Through this presentation, my aim was to provide a balanced and thoughtful analysis of the current landscape, informed by both regulatory data and real-world perspectives. As we continue to evaluate the impact of these changes, further research and collaboration will be essential to ensure that safety improvements do not come at the expense of accessibility and comprehensive care.

SANTOS CORTEZ GRADUATE STUDENT LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY (GSLA) INTERNS

Dr. Jody Chiang

Dr. Jody Chiang was born and raised in Santa Cruz, California, and spent her childhood between the United States and Taiwan, fostering her fluency in Mandarin Chinese and a deep appreciation for cultural diversity. She earned her B.S. in Biology with a minor in Chinese from UC Davis, followed by a Master of Science in Global Medicine from USC Keck School of Medicine, and completed her dental training at Roseman University College of Dental Medicine as a National Health Service Corps Scholar. Dr. Jody Chiang is currently a pediatric dental resident at NYU Langone in San Diego, CA. Her dedication to service, leadership, research, and academic excellence earned her multiple awards upon graduation, including the Brian D. Stone Memorial Award, the Quintessence Award for Research Achievement, and the Cheever Outstanding Leadership and Professionalism Scholarship. Drawing from her own experiences, Dr. Chiang is passionate about advancing oral health equity and uplifting underresourced communities. She strongly believes in the power of organized dentistry and advocacy to unite healthcare providers, develop solutions, and improve pediatric oral health outcomes.

Dr. Maile Osborne

Dr. Maile Osborne grew up in Benicia, California and attended college at the University of Hawaii where she was a part of the women’s water polo team. After college, Dr. Osborne had the opportunity to spend some time abroad in Italy before returning to formal education. She received her Master of Science in Global Medicine and Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from USC. While in dental school, Maile was a member of the USC Mobile Dental Clinic team and USC Special Patients Clinic team. After dental school, Dr. Osborne pursued her passion for working in community health as a general dentist at an FQHC in the Los Angeles area and continued to volunteer with the Special Olympics Special Smiles team. While working in her community, she recognized the importance of improving access to specialized care for underserved children. Her experiences working and volunteering with children and those with special healthcare needs inspired her to dedicate her training to become a pediatric dentist. Currently, Dr. Osborne is a second-year resident at USC and Long Beach Memorial and Miller Children’s Hospital. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband exploring new coffee shops and surfing together. Dr. Osborne is thrilled to be a GSLA intern for CSPD where she’ll learn how she can play a vital role in advocacy. She believes that engaging in advocacy is essential to addressing disparities in dental care, and to ensure every child can live a happy, healthy life. Through being a part of organized dentistry, she hopes to inspire positive change to help propel our profession into the future and best serve her community.

Dr. Helina Tessema

Dr. Helina Tessema, a native of Los Angeles, CA, is a dedicated and compassionate dentist. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology & Human Biology with a minor in Chinese Studies from Emory University, followed by her Doctorate in Dental Medicine from Tufts University. Dr. Helina Tessema is currently a pediatric dental resident at UCSF School of Dentistry. Dr. Tessema’s interest in CSPD’s involvement with organized dentistry and advocacy stems from her desire to advance health education and disease prevention, not just among her patients, but for all of California’s pediatric populations. In her leisure time, she enjoys cooking, event planning, and hot yoga. She is also thrilled to be back on the West Coast closer to her family, and excited to continue getting involved in future CSPD programs.

2025 WARREN BRANDLI LEADERSHIP INTERNS

Dr. Aubrey Morrone

Dr. Aubrey Morrone is a thirdyear pediatric dental resident at the University of California, San Francisco and a Master of Public Health candidate at San José State University. She earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry and her B.S. in Nutritional Science from the University of Maryland, College Park. Dr. Morrone is a recipient of the National Health Service Corps Scholarship and has long been committed to advancing oral health equity, particularly for children with special healthcare needs. She has held national leadership roles in the Special Care Dentistry Association and served as a GSLA intern through the CSPD, where she advocated for policies supporting access to dental care for vulnerable populations. Her interest in organized dentistry stems from a deep belief in the power of collective advocacy and mentorship to shape the future of pediatric oral health. As a 2025-2026 Warren Brandli Intern, she is excited to further engage with CSPD’s initiatives and continue working to advance oral health for all children.

Dr. Carly Tse-Goldstein

Dr. Carly Tse-Goldstein was born and raised in Sacramento, CA. As a child, she happily attended the CSPD Annual Meetings with her mother, a fellow pediatric dentist, and could often be found dancing the night away at the reception dinners or sitting quietly with a book during CE lectures. Those early memories sparked her interest in pediatric dentistry and showed her the power of organized dentistry. Now a second-year resident at UCLA, Dr. Tse-Goldstein is honored to serve as a 2025–2026 Warren Brandli Intern and to be part of such a dynamic board of CSPD leaders. She is committed to shaping the future of the profession, driving policy, and supporting the professional growth of her peers. Her ultimate goal is to lead initiatives that improve the delivery of dental care, particularly for underserved populations. Dr. Tse-Goldstein earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles, where she served as lead research manager for the Psychology Department. Inspired by her passions for creativity, public health, and dentistry, she went on to attend the Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health at A.T. Still University, graduating with honors as a member of the Omicron Kappa Upsilon Dental Honor Society. She also earned a Master’s in Public Health from A.T. Still University. Following graduation, Dr. Tse-Goldstein practiced as an associate dentist in Orange County, CA, for two years before beginning her residency at UCLA, where she now serves as chief resident of the dental operating room at UCLA’s Ronald Reagan Hospital. Outside of dentistry, she enjoys painting and spending quality time with her family.

AAPD ANNUAL SESSION IN DENVER

Dr. Donald Schmitt - AAPD Western District Trustee (2024-2027)

It was wonderful to see so many Western District members enjoying their experience at the Annual Session in Denver. On Friday, AAPD member Reza Ardalan wowed the crowd when he went full Willy Wonka to open the festivities. Mick Ebeling followed with his inspirational tale of how he tackled seemingly insurmountable problems on the way to forming Not Impossible Labs. Mick founded his company on the principle of using technology for the sake of humanity and has created an award-winning technology incubator dedicated to changing the world. The

exhibit hall was packed with all the latest dental materials and technology along with poster presentations from over 400 residents. Not to mention all the adorable, cuddly puppies! The Welcome Reception, sponsored once again by the AAPD Foundation, at the National Western Complex featured great performances by Zac Barnett of American Authors, Uncle Kracker, and Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray. At Sunday’s General Assembly, the Western District’s own Berenice Cheng from Loma Linda University was the winner of the Ralph E McDonald Award for her research on Step Mutans Inhibition and Rota Rokhshad, also of Loma Linda, was a finalist. Congratulations Drs. Cheng and Rokhshad! The final evening of the Annual Session featured the StarryNight Themed Presidents Farewell Dinner at the amazing Denver Art Museum. I look forward to seeing many of you at the May 2026 Annual Session in Las Vegas!

AAPD Board of Trustees Meeting

The board approved the following budget for the 2025-26 fiscal year. A loss is projected only due to a very conservative view of revenues and a pessimistic view of expenses. In fact, AAPD is in strong financial shape with healthy reserves.

The complete minutes of the May 25, 2025 meeting can be found at www.aapd.org/globalassets/2025-05-20-botsminutes---final.pdf

Highlighting a few of the motions:

1. To approve Dr. Thomas Tanbonliong and Dr. Jonathon Bacon as back-up faculty for the AAPD Fall Sedation Courses.

2. To approve Dr. Tim Wright as Chair of the EBD Airway Workgroup, and AAPD pursuing this CPG as a joint publication with AAO.

3. After the official list of ADA delegates has been released, convene AAPD member delegates to a Zoom meeting regarding potential ADA House of Delegates resolution regarding pediatric sedation.

4. Work with the Pediatric Dental Resident Committee and Committee on Early Career Pediatric Dentists to develop a template which is designed to assist state and district chapters in developing localized programs for pediatric dental residents, with a focus on business and practice management. Symposiums, workshops, or educational series should include topics which aim to equip residents with the essential knowledge and skills required for successful practice ownership or association.

BOARD MEETING AUGUST 2, 2025

MOTION 2025. 08.02.01: Approval of the Agenda. MOTION CARRIED

MOTION 2025. 08.02.02: Approval of the Minutes of April 24, 2025, and May 19, 2025, Meeting of the CSPD Board of Directors. MOTION CARRIED

MOTION 2025. 08.02.03: Approval of Consent Reports and Submissions. MOTION CARRIED

MOTION 2025. 08.02.04: Approval of the 2025 – 2026 Proposed Budget. MOTION CARRIED The last dental marketing partner you’ll ever need... because expensive marketing is hard to swallow.

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CALIFORNIA SOCIETY OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

ELECTED AND APPOINTED LEADERSHIP

A complete listing of committee appointments may be found at www.cspd.org

OFFICERS

Immediate Past President: Mitch Poiset

President: MyLinh Ngo

Vice President: Natalie Vander Kam

Secretary: Pardis Lipkin

Treasurer: Shan Girn

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

North 2024 – 2026: Cheryl Willett

South 2024 – 2026: Laura McCormack

At Large 2024 – 2026: Ella Saeed

North 2025 – 2027: Helen Mo

North 2025 – 2027: Jean Star

South 2025 – 2027: Evelyne Vu-Tien

South 2025 – 2027: Maryam Meschi

At Large 2025 – 2027: Dr. Rita Daghlian

APPOINTED OFFICERS

Web Site Editor: Leticia Edwards

Bulletin Managing Editor: Chanel McCreedy

Public Policy Advocate: Dr. Evelyne Vu-Tien

CONTACTS AND LIAISONS

AAPD District V (WSPD) Trustee: Don Schmitt

AAPD Liaison (Board Member): Cat Pham

WSPD Liaison (Board Member): Ella Saeed

AAP California Chapter Liaison: John Guijon

AAP Northern California Chapter Liaison: Gila Dorostkar

AAP Los Angeles Chapter Liaison: OPEN

AAP Orange County Chapter Liaison: John Guijon

AAP San Diego Chapter Liaison: Wai Yin Chan

Annual Meeting Sponsor Relations Liaison: Ora Lowe

California Dental Society of Anesthesiology Liaison: David Rothman

CSPD Foundation Liaison (Ex Officio

Immediate Past President): Mitch Poiset

Advisor to the Public Policy Advocate –Legislative Affairs: Santos Cortez

Advisor to the Public Policy Advocate –

Dental Board of California: Paul Reggiardo

UPCOMING EVENTS

March 12-15, 2026

2026 CSPD Annual Meeting

Hyatt Regency Mission Bay San Diego, CA

March 11-14, 2027

2027 CSPD Annual Meeting

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Monterey, CA

CSPD REPRESENTATIVES TO THE WSPD BOARD

CSPD President (Ex Officio): MyLinh Ngo

CSPD Vice President (Ex Officio): Natalie Vander Kam

CSPD Liaison to the WSPD Board: Ella Saeed

CSPD Representative to the WSPD Board: Rita Daghlian

BOARD MEMBER – LEADERSHIP INTERN

Warren Brandli Internship (WBI) Interns:

• Dr. Aubey Morrone (UCSF)

• Dr. Carleen Tse (UCLA)

Santos Cortez Graduate Student (GSLA) Interns:

• Dr. Maile Osborne (USC)

• Dr. Helina Iyob-Tessema (UCSF)

• Dr. Jody Chiang (NYU Langone)

STAFF

Administrative Operations Manager: Diane Skullr

CSPD PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Have you been thinking about hiring an associate, but just aren't sure where to look? Or are you finishing your residency soon, and aren't sure where you'd like to live and practice?

The answer is right on the CSPD website. To look at these opportunities and others, go to www.cspd.org

• Opportunities Wanted

• Opportunities Available

• Faculty Positions Available

• Practices for Sale

CALIFORNIA SOCIETY OF PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

808 R Street, Suite 209 Sacramento, CA 95811