San Diego Dental Death: 9-Year-Old’s Case Ruled Accident
- A 9-year-old san Diego girl's death following a dental procedure in March has been ruled an accident.
- The condition, which impairs oxygen delivery by red blood cells, was linked to recent nitrous oxide administration and multiple anesthetic medications, according to the medical examiner's report.
- methemoglobinemia, a rare blood disorder, can be triggered by certain medications or chemicals, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
A San Diego dental visit turned deadly after a 9-year-old girl’s tragic death, now ruled an accident. Authorities steadfast that methemoglobinemia, triggered by anesthesia and nitrous oxide, was the primary_keyword cause. This devastating incident sheds light on the potential risks associated with dental procedures and highlights the importance of understanding secondary_keyword complications. News Directory 3 delivers a complete report,detailing the medical examiner’s findings,the role of the anesthesiologist,and the dental office’s internal review. We examine the contributing factors and delve into the child’s medical history before the dental appointment. What preventative measures were available, and what can be learned from this tragedy? Discover what’s next …
San Diego girl’s Death After Dental Visit Linked to anesthesia
Updated May 30, 2025
A 9-year-old san Diego girl’s death following a dental procedure in March has been ruled an accident. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office reported that Silvanna moreno died due to methemoglobinemia after being administered anesthesia.
The condition, which impairs oxygen delivery by red blood cells, was linked to recent nitrous oxide administration and multiple anesthetic medications, according to the medical examiner’s report.
methemoglobinemia, a rare blood disorder, can be triggered by certain medications or chemicals, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Symptoms include bluish or purplish skin, lips, or nails, and the condition can be life-threatening.
The dental procedure took place at Dreamtime Dentistry in Vista. Dr. Ryan Watkins, the office’s anesthesiologist, stated that methemoglobinemia can occur with nitrous oxide. He added that silvanna showed no signs of distress during the procedure.
“If we had observed any indication of methemoglobinemia, we would have instantly discontinued the procedure and transported her to the hospital for emergency treatment,” Watkins saeid.
Silvanna had a fever and was given children’s tylenol the day before the procedure and complained of a headache the day of, according to an autopsy report cited by People magazine. The dental procedure lasted three hours.
Watkins said Silvanna was a healthy child who underwent a standard preoperative evaluation and was continuously monitored during the procedure. She was also monitored in recovery until her vital signs were stable before being released to her mother, according to Watkins.
According to the medical examiner’s report, Silvanna fell asleep on the car ride home and remained asleep after arrival. Family members found her unresponsive later and called 911. She was pronounced dead at the hospital.
“We are profoundly saddened by the tragic loss of Silvanna Moreno, and our hearts continue to go out to her family during this incredibly difficult time,” Watkins said.
Watkins said his office is conducting an internal review and consulting with experts to ensure patient safety.
NBC San Diego reported that Watkins was previously investigated by the Dental Board of California after a patient nearly died in 2016. The patient’s heart stopped after being given two drugs,one of which investigators said should not have been administered. Watkins was on probation from 2020 to 2023 and settled a lawsuit filed by the patient.
What’s next
The internal review by Dreamtime Dentistry and consultations with experts may lead to changes in protocols for administering anesthesia during dental procedures.