Dentistry anesthesia concerns

Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC, DABVP, FAVD, told dvm360^® that aside from the top 2 questions clients ask surrounding dentistry, the third concern involves anesthesia. In an interview, Bellows explained that clients are often wary of putting their beloved dog or cat under an anesthetic because they fear it will "cause complications" however, it is a necessity for oral procedures.

“Well, unfortunately, [dentistry procedures] have to be done under anesthesia, and [oral procedures] have to be done intubated. Both the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Veterinary Association (AVA) mandate that anesthetics and intubation are performed when dentistry procedures are called for,” noted Bellows.

“The reason for this is [so] the animal won't feel pain and will be still so dental X-rays can be taken, probing can be done, and the treatment can actually be performed at that time,” he continued.

For more of his thoughts on anesthesia during dental procedures and communicating with clients on the topic, watch the full video below.