My dog's vets disagree on dental cleaning. Is anesthesia risky?

Question

My dog had an abscess on her lip (not coming from teeth) that has cleared up with antibiotics. Today at her follow up appointment we saw a different vet, who told us that she needs professional teeth cleaning under anaesthetic. The previous vet said her teeth were fine. How can both opinions be so different in the space of a week? is this invasive procedure absolutely necessary? I have heard of cases where the pet has died under this procedure and feel it isn't worth that risk. I. Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 6 years and 10 months old

Andrea M. Brodie, DVM · Accepted Answer

Without seeing the condition of Sookie's teeth it is not possible to give you my opinion on that. Generally, if you see lots of tartar, and if she has a bad smell coming from her mouth, she will need a cleaning under anesthesia. Dental disease can cause heart disease and kidney disease, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the blood stream through inflamed tissue which then gets transported to the heart and kidneys and causes infection there. Anesthesia is very safe nowadays and, provided your dog is otherwise healthy, there is just a small risk involved.

My dog's vets disagree on dental cleaning. Is anesthesia risky?

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