Common Issues in Pets

Dental extractions are a very common surgical procedure, typically performed daily in most veterinary practices.  However, they are not a simple undertaking.  Dental extractions are typically performed to remove an infected and/or painful tooth.

Indications

Indications include but are not limited to: fractured or dead teeth, periodontal disease, persistent or infected deciduous teeth, tooth resorption, abscessed teeth, caudal stomatitis, and unerupted teeth.  However, options such as root canal therapy or periodontal surgery can effectively save many of these teeth and should be considered prior to extraction.

However, there are times where extraction is the only option.  In addition, certain situations make extractions challenging and even dangerous.  For example, the canine teeth in dogs and cats are very large and present very challenging extractions. They also extend along the nasal cavity which can result in a chronic nasal infection of the extraction is not performed precisely. Further, in small breed dogs, the teeth are proportionally larger in compared with their jaw.  This creates minimal bone below the tooth which can result in a jaw fracture if the procedure is not undertaken with extreme care.

Referred to Specialists

For these (and many other reasons), many veterinarians refer their dental cases (especially small dogs) to VDS for extractions.  Our significant experience and specialized equipment greatly decrease the incidence of complications.  Further, we at VDS employ minimally invasive surgical techniques whenever possible.  This means less pain and a faster recovery for your pet.  Dr. Niemiec is a pioneer in these techniques and they have revolutionized dental care for pets.

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