DENTAL RISKS

All dental procedures, including extractions, nerve blocks, and oral surgery, carry potential complications beyond general surgical risks. These may include haemorrhage, infection, pain, jaw fractures, nerve injury, and iatrogenic or inadvertent injury.

The consequences of a pet experiencing one or more of these complications can range from minor to serious, depending on the extent of the issue and the specific procedure involved. SEH Veterinarians are experienced in performing dental surgeries with care and precision, and every effort is made to manage risks appropriately.

However, despite all reasonable precautions, complications can occasionally occur—particularly in pets with advanced dental disease, underlying health conditions, or structural abnormalities of the mouth and jaw.

Haemorrhage

Dental procedures, particularly extractions, can lead to bleeding from the gums or other oral tissues. In some cases, bleeding may be difficult to control, especially in pets with underlying clotting disorders or advanced periodontal disease.

Infection

Oral tissues are naturally exposed to bacteria, and dental procedures can create an opportunity for bacterial infection. Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce this risk, especially in cases involving advanced dental disease or extractions. In rare cases, infections may spread to other parts of the body, such as the jawbone or bloodstream, requiring further treatment.

Pain

Dental procedures are inherently painful, particularly those involving extractions or surgical manipulation of oral tissues. A combination of local anaesthetic nerve blocks and systemic pain relief is used to manage discomfort. Effective pain control improves recovery and reduces stress during the healing period.

Jaw Fracture

Small breed dogs, cats, and older pets with severe periodontal disease are at higher risk of jaw fracture during or after extractions, particularly of large teeth such as the lower carnassials. Every effort is made to assess bone quality and use appropriate techniques, but in rare cases, fracture may occur and may require surgical repair.

Nerve Injury

Nerve blocks are commonly used to provide effective pain relief during dental procedures. While generally safe, there is a small risk of temporary or (very rarely) permanent nerve damage, which could result in drooping of facial muscles, loss of sensation, or discomfort in the affected area.

Procedure Related or Inadvertent Injury

As with all procedures, accidental damage to surrounding tissues - including neighbouring teeth, soft tissues, or the eye (in rare upper jaw cases) - can occur. These events are uncommon and depend on the specific location and complexity of the surgery.