Phoenix, AZ – A haunting final photograph of Benjamin “Ben” Newgard, a 24-year-old Arizona man who died during a routine wisdom tooth extraction, has resurfaced online as his family reaches a settlement in their wrongful death lawsuit against the dental practice involved.
The image, taken just hours before the procedure in 2022, shows Newgard smiling alongside his mother, unaware of the tragic outcome that would unfold later that day. The photo has become a symbol of the family’s loss and a focal point in ongoing conversations about patient safety in outpatient dental care.
What Happened During the Procedure?
According to court documents, Newgard visited a Phoenix-area oral surgeon in June 2022 for the removal of his impacted wisdom teeth. During the procedure, which was performed under intravenous sedation, he experienced a cardiopulmonary emergency. Despite efforts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office ruled the cause of death as complications from anesthesia during dental surgery. The autopsy noted underlying health factors, but the family’s attorney argued that inadequate monitoring and delays in emergency response contributed to the fatal outcome.
The Wrongful Death Settlement
Newgard’s parents filed a wrongful death and medical negligence lawsuit against the dental practice and anesthesiologist in 2023. Last week, both parties reached a confidential settlement, avoiding a public trial. While the financial terms remain undisclosed, the family’s attorney stated that the agreement includes mandatory changes to the clinic’s safety protocols.
“No amount of money can bring Ben back, but this settlement ensures that other families might be spared this same nightmare,” said Newgard’s mother, Lisa, in a brief statement. “We want his memory to inspire better standards of care.”
The Photo’s Emotional Impact
The final photo of Newgard, widely shared by his family during their search for answers, has recently recirculated on social media and news outlets following the settlement announcement. In it, he appears healthy and relaxed—a stark contrast to the tragedy that followed.
Patient safety advocates have used the image to highlight potential risks associated with dental sedation, particularly for young adults and patients with undiagnosed health conditions.
Broader Implications for Dental Safety
While serious complications from dental anesthesia are rare, this case has prompted discussions within the dental community about:
- Pre-operative health screenings
- The presence of qualified emergency personnel and equipment
- Transparency regarding anesthesia risks
The Arizona Dental Association has since reiterated its guidelines on sedation safety, though no statewide regulatory changes have been enacted.
A Family’s Hope for Change
The Newgard family has indicated they plan to advocate for “Ben’s Law,” legislation that would strengthen safety requirements for dental offices performing sedation. Similar laws exist in a handful of states, often requiring emergency training, proper equipment, and clear patient informed consent.
“If sharing Ben’s photo and story saves one life, then some good will have come from our loss,” his father shared.
