Vet360 Vol 4 Issue 4 August 2017 Vet 360 | Page 36

DENTISTRY
endotracheal tube every time the animal is rotated
(Figure 9).
ULTRASONIC SCALING
Hearing loss
Probability: Extremely rare
To prevent this complication, avoid the “jack ham-
mer” effect by using the side of the ultrasonic scaler
vs. the tip to remove plaque and calculus, and only
spend seconds on each tooth; if more time is needed
come back after addressing other teeth.
Tooth discoloration secondary to pulpitis
Probability: Rare
To prevent this complication, avoid excessive heat
transfer from the ultrasonic scaler by ensuring proper
water spray, and only spend seconds on each tooth;
if more time is needed come back after addressing
other teeth.
EXTRACTIONS
Air embolism from the dental drill
Probability: Extremely rare
To prevent this complication, try to avoid entering the
mandibular canal during the extraction process. An
air embolus can be created by inadvertent injection
of a mixture of air and water through the dental drill
vet360
Issue 04 | AUGUST 2017 | 36
Figure 9. Pneumomediastinum, pneumothorax, and pneumoperitone-
um secondary to tracheal rupture.
directly into the mandible entering the superior vena cava
and right atrium.
So, how much information to share?
We should include a similar discussion as my sister’s surgeon
before dental procedures requiring general anaesthesia.
Veterinarians are held to reasonable community standards.
What would a typical doctor disclose? Tell them what a typ-
ical client needs to know. It’s just good practice and part of
our practice acts. Of course there is a fine line between in-
forming and scaring clients out of needed care. This is where
the art of practice comes into play. Let your client know that
these complications are for the most part extremely rare and
you and your staff take every precaution to prevent them.
Also convey the small risk is worth the reward of a pain-free
functional mouth.