Is my pet too old for a dental?
We quite often hear from clients about pets who have had issues or have died under anaesthesia. Twenty years ago many of these concerns would be valid reasons for not proceeding with an elective procedure in an older pet. Fortunately, things have changed for pets having anaesthesia today. Contemporary anaesthesia is much safer in several ways:
Pre-anaesthetic examinations and testing helps us to recognise those pets that are having internal problems that aren't yet recognisable by their owners at home. If a problem is found, we can try to resolve it before allowing the pet to undergo anaesthesia.
The combination of modern inhalant gas and dental nerve blocks is a much safer arrangement than using only injectable agents to achieve an appropriate level of anaesthesia. As mentioned above, the endotracheal tube protects against contamination of the lungs by oral bacteria.
Monitoring has changed from merely watching to see if the animal is breathing to tracking pulse rate and quality, blood pressure, respiratory rate, temperature and electrical rhythm of the heart. When pets are being monitored appropriately it allows veterinarians and vet nurses to detect abnormalities and initiate therapy to avoid anaesthetic problems.
It is strongly recommended that all pets undergoing dental care now receive fluid therapy by intravenous catheter during anaesthesia to maintain vascular volume and blood pressure. This protects sensitive brain and kidney cells. We also use thermal support to prevent hypothermia during anaesthesia which can change the rate at which the drugs are processed.
AGE IS NOT A DISEASE and mature pets that are otherwise healthy are able to tolerate anaesthesia well. A pet that is older is more likely to have severe periodontal disease and thus more pain. These animals still need care in order to maintain the quality of their lives. Taking care of their gums and teeth is also one of the best ways to extend their lifespan.
Read Jess’ case study below. This is a great reason for having your older pet’s teeth checked.
CASE STUDY – Jess
Jess had a tooth resorption as an older cat.
Jess is a nearly 14 year old cat who came in for a general health check initially, she hadn't been wanting to eat and was losing weight. Blood tests were done, and she was diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism. At this health check it was noted that she had sore/inflamed gums, and a dental was suggested by Vet Tara. She had repeat bloods done after a month to ensure she was stable enough to proceed with the anesthesia for the dental.
During the procedure it was discovered she had a tooth resorption, which is common in older cats and can be very painful. Under anesthesia the tooth was removed. Her teeth were also given a scale and polish.
Feline tooth resorption is a condition where the body begins breaking down and absorbing the structures that make up the tooth. The process usually starts in the enamel along the gum line, and continues towards the centre of the tooth. Eventually, the tooth will be almost entirely gone. All that will remain is a raised bump on the gums.
Jess is now much happier and eating better since her tooth extraction.
Jess’ tooth before the extraction, the lump in her gum showing her tooth resorption.
X-ray of Jess’ tooth, showing the extent of the resorption.
After the tooth has been removed.