Autopsy reveals cause of death for child who died after dental procedure in Vista

A nine-year-old girl died following dental surgery at Dreamtime Dentistry in Vista, with the Medical Examiner attributing her death to methemoglobinemia caused by nitrous oxide. Her mother reported that the child appeared disoriented after the procedure and later stopped breathing at home, prompting a 911 call. Emergency responders administered multiple doses of epinephrine, but the child was pronounced dead at Rady Children’s Hospital. The dentist claimed that all medications were given per guidelines and that the child's pre-operative health was confirmed as normal. Investigators are scrutinizing the events leading up to the child's death, including her fever the day before surgery.

The San Diego Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation, while the District Attorney's office is also involved. Local dental experts have noted that the drugs used during sedation are typically safe, emphasizing the importance of dosage. This tragic incident raises concerns about safety protocols in pediatric dental procedures.