While the amount of coronal calculus/tartar (mineral deposits on the crowns of the teeth) is relatively easy to assess in a conscious patient, it actually bears almost no relationship to periodontal status.
Micro-dogs have teeth that are proportionally very big and this leads to dental crowding which dramatically increases the risk of periodontal disease. Early intervention to remove less significant teeth can really improve the prospects for the more important teeth left in place.
If we are truly honest with all of our clients, we risk alienating some of them and having them go elsewhere, to the detriment of our business. This puts us in a conflict of interest.
While taking some dental continuing education is a great thing for a general practitioner to do, this would not prepare one to perform advanced procedures on live patients. Many procedures should be considered “Not for the Casual Operator”.
