Understanding the Risks of "Anaesthesia-Free Dentistry" in Pets
In the ACT, there are services reported to be offering “anaesthesia-free dentistry” for pets. These procedures typically involve cleaning or scaling a pet’s teeth while fully conscious. While these services may appear to be a low-risk alternative to procedures performed under anaestheisa, it is important to understand their limitations and associated risks.
Why Dental Health Matters
Dental disease is common in companion animals and can lead to significant health issues if left untreated, including chronic pain, tooth loss, and potential impacts on systemic health. Regular veterinary dental check-ups and appropriate treatment can help prevent these outcomes and support overall wellbeing.
Key Considerations
1. Stress and Restraint
Conscious animals undergoing dental procedures require physical restraint. This can be a source of stress for the animal, particularly if there is discomfort or pain. Repeated exposure may lead to increased sensitivity or behavioural avoidance, especially around the mouth and face.
2. Superficial Cleaning Only
These procedures generally focus on cleaning visible surfaces above the gum line. However, dental disease in pets often occurs below the gum line, where it cannot be seen without proper tools and techniques. Surface cleaning may give the appearance of improved dental health without addressing underlying issues.
3. Ongoing Disease and Pain
Because subgingival (below the gum) disease can persist undetected, animals may continue to experience oral discomfort or pain after the procedure. Owners may be unaware of ongoing issues if they rely solely on visual improvement.
4. Diagnostic Limitations
A comprehensive dental examination requires the pet to be under general anaesthesia by a registered veterinarian. This allows the veterinarian to examine all tooth surfaces thoroughly, including probing below the gum line and taking dental radiographs if necessary. These steps are essential for diagnosing periodontal disease and other oral health problems that are not visible during a conscious examination.
5. The Role of Anaesthesia in Veterinary Dentistry
Anaesthesia enables a complete and pain-free examination and treatment, without the need for forceful physical restraint. It improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes, while also minimising distress for the animal.
Recommendations
Pet owners are encouraged to consult their veterinarian to develop an appropriate dental health plan, which may include:
- Regular professional dental check-ups under anaesthesia.
- Home dental care (e.g., brushing, dental chews) as recommended.
- Monitoring for signs of oral discomfort or changes in eating habits.
Additional Reading and References
Equine dentistry in the ACT
A statement from the ACT Veterinary Practitioners Board regarding the Veterinary Practice Act 2018 with regard to Equine Dentistry in the ACT:
The ACT Veterinary Practitioners Board has received numerous inquiries from horse owners in the ACT regarding the use of power tools by Equine Dentists (lay-persons). In response, the ACT Government reviewed the Veterinary Practice Act 2018 (the Act) in early 2024 and conducted a stakeholder consultation on a proposed amendment to the Act, that would allow non-veterinary professionals with a Diploma of Equine Allied Health to perform equine dentistry using power tools.
The consultation was distributed to all Veterinary Practitioners and Premises in the ACT, as well as several other identified professional bodies. The Board received 55 submissions, with 12 supporting the amendment and 43 opposing it. After careful consideration of all feedback, 30 August 2024 the Minister for City and Government Services, Tara Cheyne MLA reviewed the information and decided against the amendment of the Restricted Acts of Veterinary Science.