Everything You Need to Know about Full Mouth Extractions for Pets

Your pet's dental health is very important. When your pets' teeth or gums become severely diseased, a full-mouth extraction may be the only way to restore their health. At this point, you may have many questions about what this procedure entails and how it will affect your pets.

At North Hills Animal Hospital in Sherwood, AR, we are your pet's dental health experts. We understand that a full-mouth extraction can be a daunting procedure, both emotionally and financially, so we are here to provide you with all the information you need about full-mouth extractions for your pet.  

What Is a Full Mouth Extraction?

A full-mouth extraction is a procedure in which all of the teeth in your pet's mouth are removed. This may be done for several reasons, including severe periodontal disease, severe trauma to the mouth, tumors or cysts in the jawbone, or if an animal cannot keep his teeth clean due to age.

How Is a Full Mouth Extraction Performed?

Full mouth extractions are typically performed under general anesthesia, with the patient intubated so that the veterinarian can properly administer and monitor anesthetic. The procedure itself usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the number of teeth being extracted.

The extraction procedure/surgery process involves removing the teeth one at a time using an instrument called an elevator, which is used to loosen and remove each tooth from the jawbone.

Once all of the teeth have been extracted, the veterinarian will use a dental scaler to thoroughly clean any remaining debris or bacteria from inside your pet's mouth.

What Are the Risks Involved with Full Mouth Extractions?

As with any surgical process, there are some risks involved with full mouth extractions. These include;

• Anesthesia – General Anesthesia carries some level of risk and should be discussed with your veterinarian prior to the procedure.
• Pain - While your pet will be given pain medication before and after the procedure, there is still a chance that he may experience some discomfort during recovery.
• Infection - As with any surgical site, there is a risk of infection. To minimize this risk, your veterinary expert may prescribe antibiotics prior to the procedure and aftercare instructions for you to follow.

What Kind of Care Is Needed after a Full Mouth Extraction?

Once your pet has had a full-mouth extraction, it is important to provide him with proper care and support during recovery. Our veterinarian will be able to provide you with instructions on how best to care for your pet in the days following the procedure. This may include providing soft food, monitoring for any signs of infection or pain, and providing your pet with lots of rest.

Contact Us for More Information

At North Hills Animal Hospital in Sherwood, AR, we understand the importance of your pet's dental health. If you have any questions about full-mouth extractions or if your pet is in need of this procedure, do not hesitate to contact our veterinary department. We are here for you and your pet every step of the way.