寵物拔牙：何時需要及預期
有時受損或病變的牙齒無法保留。了解為何拔牙有時是對寵物健康最好的選擇。
No veterinarian wants to extract a tooth — saving teeth is always the goal. However, when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing pain, extraction is often the kindest option for your pet. A diseased tooth causes chronic pain (pets are masters at hiding dental pain), infection that can spread to other organs, and ongoing discomfort. Removing a problematic tooth provides immediate relief and prevents future complications.
- Extractions are recommended when a tooth is severely damaged, infected, or causing pain
- Pets recover quickly from extractions — most eat normally within 24-48 hours
- Retained baby teeth in puppies/kittens may need extraction to prevent misalignment
- Broken teeth with exposed pulp are painful and require extraction or root canal
- Periodontal disease with deep pockets (>50% bone loss) means the tooth cannot be saved
- After extraction, pets feel BETTER — the chronic pain they were hiding is gone
When Extractions Are Needed
Severe periodontal disease: when bone loss exceeds 50%, the tooth has no support and must be removed. Broken teeth with exposed pulp: the nerve is exposed, causing severe pain — extraction or root canal are the options. Retained baby teeth: if baby teeth don't fall out naturally, they crowd permanent teeth and cause misalignment. Tooth resorption (common in cats): the tooth structure breaks down — very painful, extraction is the only treatment. Abscessed teeth: infection at the root tip — antibiotics alone don't cure it.
The Extraction Procedure
Extractions are performed under general anesthesia with local nerve blocks (like human dentistry). The vet carefully elevates the tooth from its socket, sometimes sectioning multi-rooted teeth for easier removal. The socket is cleaned and sutured closed. Digital dental X-rays confirm complete removal and check adjacent teeth. Pain medication is provided before, during, and after the procedure. Most pets go home the same day.
Post-Extraction Care
Feed soft food for 3-5 days after extraction. Pain medication (prescribed by your vet) should be given as directed. Monitor the extraction site for swelling or bleeding. Most pets eat normally within 24-48 hours — even with multiple extractions. Many owners report their pet seems happier and more energetic after extractions — because the chronic pain they were hiding is finally gone.
Cost and Considerations
Extraction costs vary based on the tooth (single-root vs multi-root), complexity, and number of teeth extracted. Simple extractions are less expensive; surgical extractions (for impacted or broken roots) cost more. The cost of NOT extracting a diseased tooth is higher — chronic pain, infection spreading to organs, and ongoing vet visits for antibiotics. Your vet will discuss costs and options before the procedure.
- Your pet has a broken tooth — especially if you can see pink/red inside
- Your pet has persistent bad breath or drools excessively
- Your pet is reluctant to eat or drops food while eating
- Your pet's gums are swollen, red, or bleeding near a specific tooth
- Your vet recommends extraction based on dental X-ray findings
- Your cat has tooth resorption — visible as red, inflamed gums at the gumline
Royal Veterinary Center provides professional dental extractions with full anesthesia monitoring, local nerve blocks for pain management, digital dental X-rays, and post-operative pain medication. Our team is experienced in both simple and surgical extractions. We always discuss options and costs before proceeding. Call +853 6677 6611 for a dental assessment.
+853 6677 6611