9-Year-Old Girl Dies Hours After Dental Procedure – Cause of Death Officially Revealed
A tragic incident has unfolded in Vista, California, where 9-year-old Silvanna Moreno died just hours after undergoing a dental procedure under general anesthesia. The San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office has determined her cause of death as methemoglobinemia, a rare condition that can occur when excessive nitrous oxide interferes with hemoglobin’s ability to carry oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia
Silvanna’s procedure at Dreamtime Dentistry included a root canal, crowns, fillings, and extractions. She was administered a combination of anesthetics, including nitrous oxide, propofol, and hydromorphone. Despite being monitored and showing normal oxygen levels during the procedure and recovery, she became unresponsive hours after being discharged. Emergency services were called, and she was transported to Rady Children’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead
Dr. Ryan Watkins of Dreamtime Dentistry emphasized that standard procedures were followed and that the clinic is conducting a thorough internal review. The death has been ruled accidental, and Watkins expressed condolences to Silvanna’s family while committing to heightened safety protocols to prevent similar incidents
This incident has raised concerns about the risks associated with dental procedures involving anesthesia, especially in children. Experts urge parents to discuss potential risks with healthcare providers and ensure that proper monitoring protocols are in place during such procedures.
Silvanna’s family and community are mourning the loss of a vibrant young girl whose life was cut tragically short. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the family during this difficult time.
