DENTISTRY
lie below the gum line. Intraoral radiographs are essential
to help you evaluate these areas (Figures 3A-3D).
8. Say no to technician extractions
Some state practice acts allow technicians to extract
teeth; however, veterinarians are the only professionals
allowed to perform animal surgery. Surgery is defined as
opening a body part to treat disease using instruments.
Operative dentistry is surgery. Our veterinary degrees
specify veterinary medicine, surgery and dentistry, and we
have the most knowledge and experience regarding our
patients’ anatomy and physiology and how their tissues
react to surgery. None of us would allow a human dental
assistant or hygienist to extract our teeth. Why should it be
different for veterinary patients?
9. Say no to unsterilized and dull instruments
Figure 3A. Seemingly normal incisors in a canine patient.
Can you imagine your dentist opening up a drawer
and rummaging through the instruments inside before
dipping them in cold sterile solution to extract your tooth?
Sterilized packs for diagnostics (periodontal probe, mirror
and curette), extractions (separate packs for feline and
small, medium and large dogs) and oral surgery make great
sense. To increase efficiency, keep all of the instruments
you need for a specific procedure together in one sterile
pouch or cassette. Charging a “sterile surgical pack fee”
easily covers the expense of additional instruments and
sterilization. Your instruments need to be sharp, too.
Before sterilization, sharpen your curettes and your wing-
tipped and periosteal elevators with an oiled sharpening
stone (Figures 4A-4D).
Figure 3B. Enlarged root canal and periapical lucency consistent
with a nonvital tooth in the canine patient from Figure 3A; root canal
therapy or extraction is indicated.
Figure 3C. Advanced periodontal disease in the canine patient from
Figure 3A affecting the apices of the right maxillary fourth premolar
and the first and second molars; extractions indicated.
Figure 3D. Advanced periodontal disease in the canine patient from
3A affecting the left mandibular fourth premolar and second and third
molars; extractions indicated. Stage 3 periodontal disease affecting
the left mandibular first molar; root planing coupled with home care
or extraction indicated.
Issue 04 | AUGUST 2017 | 25