Goo Yang
Goo presented with swelling of the right mandible and an unerupted tooth, indicating a potential underlying issue that required further investigation.
Oral surgery in pets, particularly dogs and cats, is a specialised field that addresses various dental and oral health issues requiring surgical intervention. While general veterinary surgery covers a wide range of procedures, oral surgery focuses specifically on the complex structures of the mouth, including teeth, gums, jawbones and soft tissues.
What is oral surgery?
Oral surgery encompasses surgical procedures performed in the oral cavity to treat dental diseases, trauma, congenital abnormalities, and other conditions affecting the mouth. Unlike general surgery, oral surgery requires a specialised approach due to the delicate and complex anatomy of the oral structures.
Procedures often involve precise manipulation of small areas, careful handling of nerves and blood vessels, and the use of specialised equipment to ensure the best outcomes for the pet.
Understanding the indications for oral surgery and its importance can help pet owners make informed decisions about their pets’ oral health care.
Indications for oral surgery
Tooth Extractions
One of the most common oral surgeries, tooth extraction, is necessary when teeth are severely decayed, fractured or infected. Impacted teeth, retained baby teeth and teeth affected by advanced periodontal disease may also require removal to prevent pain and infection.
Oral Tumours and Mass Removal
Oral tumours, which can be benign or malignant, often need surgical removal to prevent further growth and potential metastasis. Early intervention is crucial, as oral cancers can spread quickly and affect overall health.
Jaw Fractures and Trauma Repair
Pets that experience trauma, such as being hit by a car or falling from a height, may suffer from jaw fractures. Surgery is often required to realign and stabilise the jaw, ensuring proper healing and function.
Corrective Surgery for Congenital Abnormalities
Some pets are born with congenital defects like cleft palate or malocclusion (misaligned bite). These conditions can cause difficulty eating, breathing, or normal jaw function and require surgical correction to improve their quality of life.
Periodontal Surgery
In advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgery may be needed to remove infected tissue, clean deep pockets around teeth and promote healing. Procedures such as gingivectomy (removal of overgrown gum tissue) or flap surgery (to access deeper parts of the teeth and gums) are performed to manage severe periodontal conditions.
Oral Infections and Abscess Drainage
Dental abscesses, which are pockets of infection around the roots of teeth, often require surgical drainage to relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection to other parts of the body.
How Oral Surgery Differs From General Surgery
Complex Anatomy:
The mouth is a highly sensitive area with complex structures that require detailed knowledge and precision during surgery. Oral surgeons are trained to handle these intricacies, including safely manipulating nerves and blood vessels.
Specialised Equipment:
Oral surgeries often involve the use of dental-specific tools, such as high-speed drills, magnification loupes and fine sutures. This equipment is specifically designed for the small, delicate work required in the oral cavity.
Pain Management and Recovery:
Managing pain in oral surgery is critical due to the high sensitivity of the mouth. Oral surgeons have specialised knowledge in administering local anaesthetics, pain relief and post-operative care tailored to oral surgery patients.
Focus on Functionality:
Oral surgery aims not only to treat the problem but also to restore normal function, such as chewing, eating, and maintaining proper oral hygiene. This specific focus sets it apart from general surgery, which may address broader or less functionally targeted concerns.
Conclusion
Oral surgery plays a crucial role in managing dental and oral health issues in dogs and cats. Its specialised approach ensures that complex conditions are treated with the precision and care needed to improve a pet’s quality of life. If your pet shows signs of oral discomfort, bad breath, visible tumours or difficulty eating, consult your veterinarian to discuss the potential need for oral surgery. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the success of the treatment and your pet’s overall wellbeing.
