A tragic incident unfolded in San Diego when a nine-year-old girl died after undergoing anesthesia for a dental procedure at Dreamtime Dentistry in Vista on Tuesday (March 18). The child was placed under anesthesia for dental surgery and was later found unresponsive at home.
The girl was monitored by a dentist anesthesiologist during the procedure and was discharged in what was described as stable condition. However, the medical examiner's report indicates that she remained asleep during her transport home and was later found unresponsive in bed. She was taken to Rady Children’s Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The cause of death is still under investigation.
Dr. Ryan Watkins, the dentist involved, expressed deep sadness over the incident, stating that the child was referred for treatment under general anesthesia due to her young age and anxiety. Watkins emphasized that the safety and well-being of patients are the office's highest priority. He urged patience as the investigation continues, noting that the medical examiner is conducting a thorough review.
Watkins has a history with the Dental Board of California, having been investigated in 2016 after a patient nearly died during a procedure. He was placed on probation from 2020 to 2023 as a result.
The San Diego Police Department is also investigating the recent death.