Your pet’s comfort and function are the priorities of the oral surgeon and dentist. We are frequently told how our patients act younger and happier after their procedures. Most pets donít clearly indicate oral discomfort. Even vague signs like oral malodor or not chewing treats as usual should be taken seriously, as they could indicate significant problems. Otherwise, neglected small growths can literally mushroom, and hidden fractured teeth can “suddenly” abscess.;
Unlike most other areas of the body, anesthesia is necessary to fully evaluate the specific problem, and the rest of the oral cavity and throat. Anesthesia is always required to probe the periodontal pockets, obtain dental intraoral radiographs (X-rays), biopsy tumors, and perform treatments. Without X-rays, it is impossible to evaluate the 50% of the tooth that is under the gums and in bone. Dental X-rays are mandatory to evaluate oral masses, guide and evaluate any extractions, and perform root canal therapies and periodontal treatments.
Anesthesia is never taken for granted, but because we so frequently perform it on very small and geriatric patients, we are very comfortable with the monitoring and patient support that is required. Of course a full pre-anesthetic evaluation is done as necessary on every patient.
Treating teeth and tissues in the mouth requires special training, knowledge, equipment, and experience. This is why dentistry is a separate profession in human medicine. AVDC certification ensures your veterinarian is well versed in state-of-the-art techniques. Some dental and oral surgery services that are performed by Dr. Blazejewski are listed below.
Veterinary Dental Services-
Endodontics:
Treatment of fractured teeth/pulpitis and caries, root canals, crown reductions and tooth abscesses.
Periodontics:
Treatment of periodontal disease, tooth scaling and polishing, root planing, mucogingival surgery and guided tissue and bone regeneration.
Orthodontics:
Correction of common malocclusions, orthodontic appliances, bite evaluations, and genetic counseling.
Restorations:
Cast metal crowns, fillings, esthetic bonding, and bridges
Dental Radiology:
Permanent tooth assessment for puppies, dental disease, oral tumors, fractures and TMJ evaluation.
Oral Surgery:
Difficult extractions, jaw fractures, palate defects, oronasal fistulas, oral tumors, and dislocated teeth.
Oral Diseases:
Oral inflammation, oral manifestations of systemic disease, gingivostomatitis, tooth resorptive lesions and oral autoimmune disorders.
The Dental and Oral Surgery services at VRC is headed by Stanley Blazejewski, VMD, DAVDC (link to Bio).