Novel Approach to Teeth Cleaning Using Twilight Sedation

THE PROCEDURE:

We have devised and perfected a technique for complete dental cleanings using only mild to moderate sedation. At this stage, we have performed over 500 dental cleanings using this technique without encountering any post-sedation side effects or problems.

We use two drugs in combination to provide this "twilight" sedation: the first is a short-acting narcotic, Butorphanol when combined with a very low dose of Dexmedetomidine, an alpha adrenoreceptor agonist with sedative and analgesic properties, allows the patient to relax completely. While the patients are awake, they appear to simply not care that their teeth are being cleaned. In some instances, using this technique and local anesthesia (Novocain-like drugs), we are able to extract minor teeth quite easily.

MONITORING OF THE SEDATION:

We monitor, as in any procedure, the patient's pulse, spO2 or percent oxygen saturation in the bloodstream, NIBP or their blood pressure, and their ECG. We find that the patient's vital signs are routinely normal throughout the procedure, making this technique extremely safe.

REVERSAL OF THE SEDATION:

When the cleaning, polishing, and fluoride have been applied, your pet's sedation is "reversed" using an injection of another drug which is the antagonist to the Dexmedetomidine. This drug is called Antisedan. This wakens your pet within 2-5 minutes and he/she is ready to go home!

THE COST:

Because we are not using general inhalation anesthesia, the costs of this procedure are kept low, much like having your teeth cleaned.
The cost is: $160.00.

We will call you to seek your permission if there are anything additional procedures that should be done. We will not perform any additional services without your consent!

OUR MISSION:

Because periodontal disease is such a devastating health issue for our pets, causing heart valve disease, kidney and liver disease, we are determined to prevent this disease. Our experience shows that if we can clean a patient's teeth every 18 - 24 months before periodontal disease "sets" in, we can prevent it. However, if we allow this disease to become established, sometimes cleaning their teeth every 6 months is not enough!

Our mission is prevention of disease by keeping your pet's oral cavity as clean and "pristine" as possible. I think a lot of veterinarians, including myself, have been grossly negligent in caring for your pet's teeth and gums. Because so many studies in the literature point directly to the oral cavity as the potential source of the problems for our pets, we are "obsessed" with maintaining their oral health.