When we suggest a dental procedure, owners most often ask not about the teeth but about anaesthesia. That is an understandable worry. It is worth knowing, though, that modern, well-prepared anaesthesia is safe - and, above all, essential for treating teeth properly and painlessly.
Why anaesthesia is necessary
Thorough cleaning below the gum line, probing pockets, taking X-rays and any extractions are impossible in a conscious, moving animal. Anaesthesia removes pain and stress, keeps the patient still and protects the airway (via a tracheal tube) from water and fragments of tartar.
How we prepare the patient
- a clinical examination and history before the procedure,
- blood tests - especially in older patients and those with chronic disease,
- a heart check and, if needed, a cardiology consultation,
- drugs and doses tailored to age, weight and health.
Monitoring during the procedure
Throughout anaesthesia the patient is monitored: we track heart rate, breathing, blood oxygen, blood pressure and temperature. The dog or cat has an intravenous line and receives fluids, and a dedicated person watches over the anaesthesia. This lets us respond immediately to any change.
Why anaesthesia-free scaling is a bad idea
Cleaning tartar "dry" on a conscious animal is sometimes marketed as safer, but it does not clean below the gum line and does not allow the teeth to be assessed or X-rayed. It gives a cosmetic result while leaving the disease hidden - and it stresses and restrains the animal by force.
Risk versus benefit
The risk of complications in a healthy, well-prepared patient is very low, and the benefit is huge: no pain, a treated mouth and a better quality of life. Dental procedures under safe anaesthesia at MultiVet in Lutynia near Wrocław are performed by Dominika Pilarz, DVM. Book a dental consultation.