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My dog had teeth pulled. Are pain meds essential for her recovery?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Female | spayed | 9 years and 6 months old | 3.6 lbs

Bella had dental and seems well. Had 4 teeth pulled and only one suture. Vet asked if it was ok to send home pain meds. Gave 5 days of .1ml loxicom. She has never had this and reluctant to give her it. I am giving the clindacure as directed but she is eating, drinking, bathrooming and not lethargic. She sometimes has reactions so I don't want to do pain meds if I don't have to (also don't want her in pain). Are the pain meds necessary for healing or just the antibiotic?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2017

The loxicam is an anti-inflammatory medication. While it helps with pain it also helps swelling around the extraction areas and promotes healing that way. The antibiotics prevent infection but do not have any effect on inflammation from the procedure. As Bella is doing well so far I would recommend giving the loxicam to help healing. However if she has any issues afterwards such as vomiting, diarrhea and/or decreased appetite stop this medication as rarely it can have adverse effects on the liver/kidneys.

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    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    The pain meds you have from your vet should be very safe for Bella. It would be similar to you taking an Advil or Alieve after a dental procedure or for a bad tooth ache. They will also help with inflammation which will help the sites heal faster. I'm glad to hear Bella is doing so well and I would recommend trying at least one dose of the meds and see if it changes anything.

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