A dentist from Texas, Kelly Buck, was arrested for allegedly working on a child while under the influence. This occurred after a staff member at Sherman Pediatric Dentistry reported her behavior to the police.
The incident took place around 105 miles north of Dallas on Monday afternoon. Staff members noticed that Buck, 36, seemed intoxicated while treating a patient, and decided to contact law enforcement. When the police arrived, they observed signs of alcohol consumption and she subsequently failed a sobriety test.
According to Lt. Sam Boyle, the concerned caller indicated that the dentist was exhibiting signs of being tipsy while performing her duties. This incident, described as “highly unusual,” has raised significant concern.
“This case is serious, especially for anyone who might have been treated by her,” said Boyle. “We’re thankful for the alertness of the staff that helped avert a potentially dangerous situation.”
Buck, who has held her dental license since 2016, has been officially charged with a felony for operating while intoxicated. At the time of the call to police, she had only treated one patient.
The clinic mentioned that Buck was a temporary employee linked through Cloud Dentistry, a service that connects dental professionals with clinics needing extra help. She was actually in the midst of treating a patient and had several more procedures scheduled when an assistant noticed something was off and promptly informed management.
“We are really saddened and concerned by this situation, especially for the well-being of our patients,” Sherman Pediatric Dentistry posted on Facebook. They also acknowledged their gratitude to the parent involved for their cooperation, though they couldn’t disclose specific details due to privacy laws.
Buck has denied any wrongdoing. Her attorney stated that she is not guilty of the charges and emphasized her commitment to patient care. They are awaiting blood test results, which they believe will prove she was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol during the incident.
She was booked into the Grayson County Jail and later released on a $10,000 bail. The investigation continues.
