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What are the risks of dental anesthesia for a dog with heart disease?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

My dog is 9 yes old n is having heart issues.her last tooth lower jaw extreme last is loose.having dental cleaning done under anesthesia can lead to what risks?how to completely remove those risks?what r do's n don'ts to b followed before anesthesia n during anesthesia?what kind of anesthesia to b given to her?she is my life,my everything how to Save her from this huge risk?she seems perfectly fine n I don't want to loose her.plz help.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 15th, 2019

Ideally Chhutki would have an echocardiogram performed first to determine the type of heart disease present and to get a better feel for the risk under anesthesia, but I'm not sure if that's an option near you. The risk would be for congestive heart failure to develop, low blood pressure, or even for fatal complications under anesthesia. Heart safe medications should be used - here that would mean avoiding drugs like acepromazine and dexmedetomidine but again I'm not sure what drugs are standard near you. Blood pressure and vital signs should be monitored closely during anesthesia. You may want to ask your vet if referral to a specialist might be an option.

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    Answered By Ana M, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 22nd, 2019

    Thank you for submitting your question regarding Chhutki. I do not typically recommend anesthesia free dental cleanings. The problem is that it only allows the superficial tartar to be removed. It is not possible to clean under the gumline with the patient awake. This is the essential part of the cleaning. Furthermore, without an endotracheal tube placed she is at risk of aspirated material from her mouth. Lastly, the procedure will likely be very stressful for her when she is awake. Stress can exacerbate cardiac disease. If possible, I recommend consulting with a veterinary cardiologist to discuss the risk of anesthetizing her. I hope this information helps!

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