PTCA's are highly controversial in the world of veterinary medicine. Many average veterinary hospitals do not see the benefit of this procedure as it does not include radiographs. Because of this, the medical board has tight regulations on veterinary hospitals that offer this service. There are several regulations that we are responsible to tell you.
American Association and Medical Board Requirements for a PTCA:
1. The American Veterinary Medical Board and American Dental Association recommends every pet to undergo anesthesia once yearly to perform dental radiographs and deep gingival cleaning.
2. Nevada Veterinary Medical Board requires an annual exam to be performed with a Mountain View Animal Hospital and Holistic Pet Care doctor to receive any services, treatments or products/medicines including a PTCA at our hospital.
3. The annual exam establishes a relationship, evaluates health status and ensures there is no gross observations that would prohibit a patient from receiving a PTCA. In addition, medications to help sedate / relax patient during the procedure can be discussed. If the pet is found able to proceed safely with the PTCA procedure, during the PTCA procedure additional teeth / gum disease may prohibit the veterinary nurse from completing the PTCA as it may be painful for the pet.
4. If the pet is showing signs of pain, anxiety or distress, the veterinary nurse will stop. At that time the significance of dental / gum disease may be discussed with the owner and recommendations to proceeds with a anesthetized dental may be recommended or request or sedation may be desired. In the case the veterinary nurse can not clean the mouth fully, only the sedation should be charged.
5. You will receive a reminder yearly based upon regulations and recommendations by the American Veterinary Association to perform anesthetized dental cleanings. You may discuss the risk and benefits of anesthesia in your individual pet on your annual exams or sooner if necessary.