Anesthesia, sedation, and analgesia considerations
Fear of anesthesia is the most common cause of clients’ decisions to forego dental procedures for their pets.
Fear of anesthesia is the most common cause of clients’ decisions to forego dental procedures for their pets.
Medications to consider for outpatient veterinary dental anesthesia.
Anyone performing oral surgical or periodontal procedures should be familiar with dental nerve block techniques, including a thorough knowledge of oral anatomy and analgesic agents and their application.
For both veterinary professionals and pet owners, the ability to recognize dental pain is limited because dogs and cats often mask overt signs of oral discomfort.
Credentialed veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants have a prominent role in canine and feline dental care.
Excellent dental care for canine and feline patients requires an efficient, organized, and safe work environment.
Pathogens and debris such as calculus, tooth fragments, plaque, water spray, and prophy paste are aerosolized during dental procedures. The safety of the operator is ensured during dental procedures by using radiographic, oral, respiratory, skin, eye, and ear protective devices.
The most important step in achieving compliance with oral health recommendations is getting the client to understand the value and believe in the importance of regular dental care.
The client should be told that their pet needs a comprehensive, anesthetized oral exam and dental radiographs in order to perform a preventive cleaning or dental-periodontal therapy.
Oral health should be discussed at the first appointment and every visit thereafter.