Has anyone had to go to the Vet Dentist before? - YorkieTalk.com Forums

canana · 03-02-2017, 09:13 AM

So I got Scottie and Casie's teeth cleaned the other day. It's both of their first time at 2.5 years and 1.5 years.

The pet hygienist lady told me that Scottie needs to see a pet dentist. Apparently, he still has two of his baby teeth on his lower jaw, both of which are directly sitting up close to the big adult molar in the back (sorry I don't know the technical terms for teeth). She said it's possible that the baby tooth is sitting on top of the adult tooth that may have never had a chance to come up.

When I asked my breeder, they said they didn't notice any baby teeth, and my vet didn't seem to think there was any issue. But this hygienist lady specializes in teeth and she thinks that it's a serious issue, as the baby roots within the jaw may be damaging the adult roots, and that only a vet dentist would see it the same way as she is. She says it's imperative that I have them removed as soon as possible or that I'd risk Scottie loosing both teeth in the future.

Right now, he's healthy, he eats normally etc.. everything is normal. I guess my question is, should I put him under and have these baby teeth removed? I assume this kind of specialized surgery will cost somewhere in the $2000 range. If his health was in danger, I would spend the money...but, I'm having a hard time justifying this one, or understanding the severity of it. Any insights from anyone would be welcomed! Thanks!

Rachael1983 · 03-02-2017, 09:23 AM

I've had teeth pulled before from our regular vet, was your vet not present at the regular teeth cleaning?

canana · 03-02-2017, 09:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rachael1983

I've had teeth pulled before from our regular vet, was your vet not present at the regular teeth cleaning?

They also had their baby teeth pulled by a regular vet, both during their spay/neuter surgery. But when I found out that the first vet who did Scottie's surgery missed some baby teeth and pulled out some adult teeth, I was kind of furious and had switched vets when I had Casie spayed a year later.

The pet hygienist I took them to is one I've used in the past for my previous dog. She has had extensive training and 11 years experience in anesthesia-free dental cleaning, running her own clinic. She is known to some local vets, but she works independently from them (i.e. no vet is present when she works in her own clinic).

Britster · 03-02-2017, 12:45 PM

That's a tough one! I know what you mean but not wanting to do anything unnecessarily!

Jackson had to go to a vet dentist. I think he was around 3 years old. He had a slight overbite and his bottom canine tooth was poking in the roof of his mouth. It was bothering him, every morning he would open and shut his mouth because it was obviously starting to hurt.

So I spent around $1300 for a vital pulpotomy (I think it was called) which they basically just shaved down the tooth so it was no longer poking him and filled it. I did not want to pull such a large important tooth since it was healthy otherwise and it also could have impacted movement of other teeth in the future....

We got treated wonderfully. I knew he was in good hands. Our first consult there were 3 vets in the room- all ready to help and aid with the case.... I felt 100% confident leaving him there. I've learned if you want peace of mind & the best care, sometimes it's worth paying a little more to go to a specialist.

Also, like you, I took Jackson to a neuter clinic to get neutered where they also pulled baby teeth. And I think they may have messed up and that's why there was some weird misalignment happening as he aged and his teeth grew in more....

Lovetodream88 · 03-02-2017, 01:51 PM

I would at least consult with the specialist and see what they have to say. I took Callie to one to have a root canal when she broke her tooth but I wanted to try and save it and they did.

Maximo · 03-02-2017, 06:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by canana

They also had their baby teeth pulled by a regular vet, both during their spay/neuter surgery. But when I found out that the first vet who did Scottie's surgery missed some baby teeth and pulled out some adult teeth, I was kind of furious and had switched vets when I had Casie spayed a year later.

I would be furious too! We ditched our first vet, so I know how you feel.

Tough decision about what to do. I don't know what I would choose.

SaveSave

yorkiemini · 03-02-2017, 07:10 PM

My pup gets her teeth cleaned every 7-8 months due to an extremely tiny mouth that becomes yucky quickly even though I brush 3-4 times a weeks.

I would never let a hygienist work on my babies teeth.

Seems like a dental vet assessment would at least be a good idea to get a second opinion.

pstinard · 03-03-2017, 06:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by canana

So I got Scottie and Casie's teeth cleaned the other day. It's both of their first time at 2.5 years and 1.5 years.

The pet hygienist lady told me that Scottie needs to see a pet dentist. Apparently, he still has two of his baby teeth on his lower jaw, both of which are directly sitting up close to the big adult molar in the back (sorry I don't know the technical terms for teeth). She said it's possible that the baby tooth is sitting on top of the adult tooth that may have never had a chance to come up.

When I asked my breeder, they said they didn't notice any baby teeth, and my vet didn't seem to think there was any issue. But this hygienist lady specializes in teeth and she thinks that it's a serious issue, as the baby roots within the jaw may be damaging the adult roots, and that only a vet dentist would see it the same way as she is. She says it's imperative that I have them removed as soon as possible or that I'd risk Scottie loosing both teeth in the future.

Right now, he's healthy, he eats normally etc.. everything is normal. I guess my question is, should I put him under and have these baby teeth removed? I assume this kind of specialized surgery will cost somewhere in the $2000 range. If his health was in danger, I would spend the money...but, I'm having a hard time justifying this one, or understanding the severity of it. Any insights from anyone would be welcomed! Thanks!

Definitely see a dental professional. If you're lucky, they might still be able to pull the baby teeth without surgery. (Anesthesia will still be required.) If the baby teeth stay in, they will cause the adult teeth to grow crooked, or food can get caught more easily and cause an infection or dental decay, so yes, this is something that needs to be taken care of, by a professional.

matese · 03-03-2017, 06:48 AM

Can you get a 2nd opinion from another pet hygienist before making a decision?

Lovetodream88 · 03-03-2017, 10:26 AM

I'm sorry I don't want to come of dumb but what is a vet hygienist?

TxVicki · 03-03-2017, 10:35 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lovetodream88

I'm sorry I don't want to come of dumb but what is a vet hygienist?

This is usually just a person who does an Anesthesia Free Dental. In my opinion I wouldn't do this and it doesn't go under the gum line where the real issues can be. It's usually just a scrape the tarter off the teeth. So not really a true cleaning.

Mine get a Dental once a year.

canana · 03-06-2017, 08:33 AM

Britster, Maximo, isn't it crappy we cannot rely on a vet to do a good job?

pstinard, Scottie is now 3 years old. All his adult teeth have come in, the ones that had space to anyway. Right now, we're speculating that the two retained baby teeth are blocking the adult teeth that should have come up. I think we need x-rays to determine what's going on below the gum line.

Thanks everyone for your input. I guess I'm leaning towards getting the vet dentist's opinion too, understanding that the surgeries they do require anesthesia. I was informed by my pet hygienist that she highly recommends the specialist route as, despite having to go under, they are so highly trained that it's just a small fraction of time that the dog needs to be under.

I have also read the warnings about anesthesia-free dentals. My take on it is that my pet hygienist is good at what she does, as there are ones out there who aren't - just like how there are good vets and bad vets.

From what I've seen and understand, she does go under the gums, along in inner and outer mouth, she uses clean sanitized tools, and polishes each tooth - basically the same as any human hygienist would do. It's quite amazing seeing her handle my dogs. It's definitely not for everyone. I can imagine that if it was an unskilled technician doing it, the job would not be well done. It's not a very big industry and she's aware of some new pet dental clinics popping up and has mentioned that she questions their lack of professional training (some clinics say their technicians are certified after a 5-day training workshop

).

It's a long story, but basically our current vet is my previous dog's vet (Vet-A). After my horrible experience with Scottie's first vet (Vet-B), we went back to Vet-A. The only reason I switched to Vet-B was because I moved away and Vet-A is now over an hour drive away. Vet-A was the one who originally recommended this pet hygienist, for my previous dog that had a heart problem and would likely not wake up from anesthesia. My pet hygienist is known to local vets and is trained to recognize in dental problems, recommending people to see pet dentist specialists (and not general vets) if she sees anything concerning.

Anyway, the point of my long-winded explanation is, I don't suggest randomly going to any pet hygienist or groomer that claims to be a hygienist without a vet's referral.

JackiesZoo · 03-09-2017, 05:12 AM

I had thought Oliver was a little young to need a dental. He will be 3 next month. The vet said he does so I made an appointment for next week. Then I read this thread and I guess he's not too young.

He absolutely will not let me brush his teeth. He turns into a ferret when I try to do anything with him.

addevo · 03-09-2017, 11:04 AM

We took one of our dogs to a Veterinary Dentist. Our regular vet could see he needed at least one extraction. These tiny dogs have tiny mouths and she referred us to a specialist because she hoped he'd be able to extract that tooth without damaging the one behind it. As it turned out, everything went well and he was able to save the other tooth. We have a fabulous vet, but I have to say, a specialist was another whole level of expertise! There is a reason they are expensive. More specialized equipment, more extensive training. I'd rather not spend the extra money, but will certainly do it again if our vet recommends it.

03-02-2017, 09:13 AM	#1
canana Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Canada Posts: 1,903	Has anyone had to go to the Vet Dentist before? So I got Scottie and Casie's teeth cleaned the other day. It's both of their first time at 2.5 years and 1.5 years. The pet hygienist lady told me that Scottie needs to see a pet dentist. Apparently, he still has two of his baby teeth on his lower jaw, both of which are directly sitting up close to the big adult molar in the back (sorry I don't know the technical terms for teeth). She said it's possible that the baby tooth is sitting on top of the adult tooth that may have never had a chance to come up. When I asked my breeder, they said they didn't notice any baby teeth, and my vet didn't seem to think there was any issue. But this hygienist lady specializes in teeth and she thinks that it's a serious issue, as the baby roots within the jaw may be damaging the adult roots, and that only a vet dentist would see it the same way as she is. She says it's imperative that I have them removed as soon as possible or that I'd risk Scottie loosing both teeth in the future. Right now, he's healthy, he eats normally etc.. everything is normal. I guess my question is, should I put him under and have these baby teeth removed? I assume this kind of specialized surgery will cost somewhere in the $2000 range. If his health was in danger, I would spend the money...but, I'm having a hard time justifying this one, or understanding the severity of it. Any insights from anyone would be welcomed! Thanks! __________________ ~ laughter is an instant vacation ~ https://scottieandcasie.com/ :: Custom Pet Portrait Paintings

03-02-2017, 09:23 AM	#2
Rachael1983 Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: Burbs of DC Posts: 2,198	I've had teeth pulled before from our regular vet, was your vet not present at the regular teeth cleaning? __________________ Owned by Troy(RIP) & Emma

03-02-2017, 12:45 PM	#4
Britster Action Jackson ♥ Donating Member Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Maryland Posts: 17,814	That's a tough one! I know what you mean but not wanting to do anything unnecessarily! Jackson had to go to a vet dentist. I think he was around 3 years old. He had a slight overbite and his bottom canine tooth was poking in the roof of his mouth. It was bothering him, every morning he would open and shut his mouth because it was obviously starting to hurt. So I spent around $1300 for a vital pulpotomy (I think it was called) which they basically just shaved down the tooth so it was no longer poking him and filled it. I did not want to pull such a large important tooth since it was healthy otherwise and it also could have impacted movement of other teeth in the future.... We got treated wonderfully. I knew he was in good hands. Our first consult there were 3 vets in the room- all ready to help and aid with the case.... I felt 100% confident leaving him there. I've learned if you want peace of mind & the best care, sometimes it's worth paying a little more to go to a specialist. Also, like you, I took Jackson to a neuter clinic to get neutered where they also pulled baby teeth. And I think they may have messed up and that's why there was some weird misalignment happening as he aged and his teeth grew in more.... __________________ ~ Brit & Lights! Camera! Jackson! CGC ETD TKP ~ Follow Jackson on Instagram: https://instagram.com/jacksontheterrier Last edited by Britster; 03-02-2017 at 12:47 PM.

03-02-2017, 01:51 PM	#5
Lovetodream88 Yorkie mom of 4 Donating YT Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: LaPlata, Md Posts: 23,247	I would at least consult with the specialist and see what they have to say. I took Callie to one to have a root canal when she broke her tooth but I wanted to try and save it and they did. __________________ Taylor My babies Joey, Penny ,Ollie & Dixie Callie Mae, you will forever be in my heart!

03-02-2017, 07:10 PM	#7
yorkiemini Donating YT 500 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2010 Location: USA Posts: 4,285	My pup gets her teeth cleaned every 7-8 months due to an extremely tiny mouth that becomes yucky quickly even though I brush 3-4 times a weeks. I would never let a hygienist work on my babies teeth. Seems like a dental vet assessment would at least be a good idea to get a second opinion. __________________ . Cali , and Cali's keeper and staff, Jay No, not a "mini" Yorkie - She loves to motor in her Mini Cooper car

03-03-2017, 06:48 AM	#9
matese Donating YT 3000 Club Member Join Date: Feb 2014 Location: E.Stroudsburg, Pa. Posts: 67,956	Can you get a 2nd opinion from another pet hygienist before making a decision? __________________ Joan, mom to Cody RIP Matese Schnae Kajon Kia forever in my A House Is Not A Home Without A Dog

03-03-2017, 10:26 AM	#10
Lovetodream88 Yorkie mom of 4 Donating YT Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: LaPlata, Md Posts: 23,247	I'm sorry I don't want to come of dumb but what is a vet hygienist? __________________ Taylor My babies Joey, Penny ,Ollie & Dixie Callie Mae, you will forever be in my heart!

03-06-2017, 08:33 AM	#12
canana Donating YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: Canada Posts: 1,903	Britster, Maximo, isn't it crappy we cannot rely on a vet to do a good job? pstinard, Scottie is now 3 years old. All his adult teeth have come in, the ones that had space to anyway. Right now, we're speculating that the two retained baby teeth are blocking the adult teeth that should have come up. I think we need x-rays to determine what's going on below the gum line. Thanks everyone for your input. I guess I'm leaning towards getting the vet dentist's opinion too, understanding that the surgeries they do require anesthesia. I was informed by my pet hygienist that she highly recommends the specialist route as, despite having to go under, they are so highly trained that it's just a small fraction of time that the dog needs to be under. I have also read the warnings about anesthesia-free dentals. My take on it is that my pet hygienist is good at what she does, as there are ones out there who aren't - just like how there are good vets and bad vets. From what I've seen and understand, she does go under the gums, along in inner and outer mouth, she uses clean sanitized tools, and polishes each tooth - basically the same as any human hygienist would do. It's quite amazing seeing her handle my dogs. It's definitely not for everyone. I can imagine that if it was an unskilled technician doing it, the job would not be well done. It's not a very big industry and she's aware of some new pet dental clinics popping up and has mentioned that she questions their lack of professional training (some clinics say their technicians are certified after a 5-day training workshop ). It's a long story, but basically our current vet is my previous dog's vet (Vet-A). After my horrible experience with Scottie's first vet (Vet-B), we went back to Vet-A. The only reason I switched to Vet-B was because I moved away and Vet-A is now over an hour drive away. Vet-A was the one who originally recommended this pet hygienist, for my previous dog that had a heart problem and would likely not wake up from anesthesia. My pet hygienist is known to local vets and is trained to recognize in dental problems, recommending people to see pet dentist specialists (and not general vets) if she sees anything concerning. Anyway, the point of my long-winded explanation is, I don't suggest randomly going to any pet hygienist or groomer that claims to be a hygienist without a vet's referral. __________________ ~ laughter is an instant vacation ~ https://scottieandcasie.com/ :: Custom Pet Portrait Paintings

03-09-2017, 05:12 AM	#13
JackiesZoo Yorkie Yakker Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: Marion, IN Posts: 66	I had thought Oliver was a little young to need a dental. He will be 3 next month. The vet said he does so I made an appointment for next week. Then I read this thread and I guess he's not too young. He absolutely will not let me brush his teeth. He turns into a ferret when I try to do anything with him. __________________ *Jackie & Oliver*

03-09-2017, 11:04 AM	#14
addevo Donating Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Alexandria, VA, USA (near Washington, DC) Posts: 312	We took one of our dogs to a Veterinary Dentist. Our regular vet could see he needed at least one extraction. These tiny dogs have tiny mouths and she referred us to a specialist because she hoped he'd be able to extract that tooth without damaging the one behind it. As it turned out, everything went well and he was able to save the other tooth. We have a fabulous vet, but I have to say, a specialist was another whole level of expertise! There is a reason they are expensive. More specialized equipment, more extensive training. I'd rather not spend the extra money, but will certainly do it again if our vet recommends it.