Dentist linked to child’s death had prior patient safety violation
A California dentist who treated a 9-year-old girl just hours before she tragically passed away following a routine procedure had previously been placed on probation for another mishap during a dental surgery, documents have revealed.
Dr. Ryan Watkins had faced disciplinary action in 2020 over a 2016 incident involving a 54-year-old man whose heart stopped after being put under anesthesia by Watkins during a dental procedure. The man, identified only as “MK,” was considered to be in excellent health and was a triathlete, but unfortunately, his heart stopped during the surgery.
The complaint filed with the Dental Board of California stated that Watkins engaged in “unprofessional conduct” by excessively administering drugs or treatment to the patient. It was noted that the victim had a low resting heart rate, dental phobia, and a history of fainting, which Watkins failed to investigate or document.
Despite Watkins’ probation, he was allowed to continue working at the practice as long as he complied with additional requirements and oversight. He was also ordered to pay over $19,000 to cover investigative and prosecution costs.
Tragically, on March 18, 9-year-old Silvanna Moreno passed away just hours after undergoing surgery at Dreamtime Dentistry in Vista, California. According to an autopsy report from the San Diego County Medical Examiner’s Office, her death was ruled an accident caused by “methemoglobinemia in the setting of recent nitrous oxide administration.”
Watkins, a licensed dentist trained in anesthesiology, confirmed the previous incident to Fox News Digital, stating that emergency protocols were activated immediately when the patient developed cardiac arrhythmia during the procedure. He maintained that all medications were administered according to guidelines and that the patient received continuous monitoring.
In a statement, Watkins expressed his commitment to patient safety, stating that a settlement was reached without admission of wrongdoing in the previous incident and that probation orders were completed. He emphasized that the safety and well-being of patients remain the practice’s highest priority.
Regarding Silvanna Moreno’s case, Watkins reiterated that her death was an accident due to a pre-existing medical condition that was unknown to all parties involved prior to the procedure. He assured that a thorough internal review is being conducted, and additional safety measures will be implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The tragic loss of Silvanna Moreno has deeply saddened the community, and Watkins expressed his condolences to her family during this difficult time. As the investigation continues, Watkins remains committed to providing the highest standard of care and ensuring patient safety at Dreamtime Dentistry.
