Owner Survey of 55 Dogs That Underwent Full Mouth Extraction Procedures in a Referral Practice

Abstract

Full mouth extraction (FME) in dogs is a common procedure performed in veterinary dental referral practice. Clients may be apprehensive to have FME performed, with concerns for ability to eat and quality of life. These concerns may be barriers to electing to proceed. This study used a cross-sectional survey to identify concerns clients had regarding FME. Medical records of 168 dogs that underwent FME at a referral practice from 2013 to 2019 were sent surveys. A total of 55 responses were obtained. This study demonstrated that after extractions, 52.7% of the patients ate the same diet as before the surgery. Regarding enthusiasm for eating, 12 (21.7%) reported an increase in enthusiasm, 15 (27.3%) reported slightly more enthusiasm, 25 (45.5%) reported the same enthusiasm, two (3.6%) reported less enthusiasm, and one (1.8%) showed a complete lack of interest. Fifty-one (92.7%) reported improved postoperative oral comfort. Twenty-five respondents (45.5%) had a great deal of anxiety before the procedure, specifically regarding eating postoperatively, 13 (24.1%) were extremely concerned, 31 (57.4%) were somewhat concerned. Twenty-six (47.3%) were extremely anxious about anesthesia. This study demonstrated high client satisfaction with 45 (81.8%) of the respondents reporting high satisfaction. This survey demonstrated that FME is a successful procedure with a high rate of client satisfaction.