Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog inhaled dental tartar into main airway after teeth cleaning
By Gibson, K L & Hedlund, C S·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1992·Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: Aspirated dental calculus in a dog.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A dog had a dental cleaning and later developed breathing problems due to a piece of hardened plaque (dental calculus) getting stuck in its airway. The vet used X-rays and a special camera to find the blockage and performed surgery to remove it. To prevent this kind of issue during future dental cleanings, it's important for vets to use proper techniques, like ensuring the airway is protected and rinsing the mouth thoroughly afterward. The dog recovered well after the surgery.
People also search for: dog breathing problems after dental cleaning · dog dental calculus aspiration · how to prevent dental issues in dogs
Abstract
Aspiration of a dental calculus, with lodgement of the calculus in a mainstem bronchus, was identified in a dog after dental prophylaxis. The calculus was located by use of radiography and bronchoscopy, and was removed via thoracotomy. Aspiration is a possible complication of dental prophylaxis. Endotracheal intubation with a properly inflated cuff, and thoroughly rinsing the oral cavity after prophylaxis, may avoid this and similar complications.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1559890/