My 16-year-old dog has tooth pain. Is dental anesthesia safe?

Question

Okay so I can tell that my dog has a tooth pain because sometimes one of her cheeks is swollen and she often rubs her cheek with her paw (something that she didn't do before) and I took her to the vet and they said that she needed to get her teeth cleaned but my dog gets hysterical whenerver I or someone tries to clean her teeth (she's a chihuahua) and te vet said they would have to sleep her to clean her mouth but she's really old she's 16 years old and they say there's a chance she won't wak. Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua | Female | 16 years and 4 months old | 11 lbs

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS · Accepted Answer

That is true that anesthesia is more risky in older dogs, but it still can be done safely. Frida will be in a lot of pain from these problems with her teeth, and it will likely lead to a decrease in appetite. I think you have to weigh the risks of the dental vs the benefits to her. Having her teeth treated will help her so much and keep her from being in pain, but only you can decide if the risk is worth. The vet has to tell you the worst case outcome, but they wouldn’t have suggested a dental if they didn’t think it was ok to do. I hope this helps.

My 16-year-old dog has tooth pain. Is dental anesthesia safe?

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