Role of the Veterinary Technicians and Hygienists in Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery

It is important to remember that dentistry is one area of the veterinary practice that veterinary technicians/nurses/hygienists can take ownership of and drive the dental program forward under the supervision of a veterinarian. With proper training they can perform all skills except diagnosis and surgery. The veterinary technician/nurse/hygienist should educate the client about the dental procedure, perform a thorough oral examination and report findings on the dental chart, take dental radiographs, perform dental scaling and polishing, administer nerve blocks, administer perioceutics, maintain instruments and equipment, and provide discharge and home care instructions to the pet owner.
Source: Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research