Remi’s Journey: From Painful Overbite to Perfect Dental Health

Dr Geoff performed a thorough oral examination and explained to Remi’s mum that the overbite was creating a cascade of problems. The misaligned canine was causing constant trauma to the gum tissue, which was painful and inflamed. Because Remi was avoiding chewing on that side, plaque and tartar were building up rapidly on the right teeth. Left untreated, this would lead to serious periodontal disease, tooth loss, and ongoing pain.

The good news was that Remi was young, and the issue was caught early. Dr Geoff recommended dental X-rays under anaesthesia to assess whether the tooth could be safely modified rather than extracted or require a root canal.

We recommended a comprehensive approach that would address both the bite discrepancy and the existing dental disease. Under general anaesthesia, we would take detailed X-rays of the lower right canine to measure the pulp cavity and determine how much crown could be safely removed. The goal was to reduce the tooth height just enough to eliminate the gum impingement while preserving the tooth’s vitality.

Our treatment plan included:

• Full dental X-rays of the lower right canine
• Precise crown reduction if measurements allowed
• Complete scale and polish to remove existing plaque and tartar
• Gum treatment for gingivitis
• Long-term prevention plan

During the procedure, Dr Geoff carefully took X-rays of tooth 404, the lower right canine. The measurements were critical. The pulp cavity measured 2.7mm from the tip of the crown. This meant we could safely remove 2mm of crown height without exposing the sensitive pulp chamber. Using a precision cutting burr, Dr Geoff carefully removed exactly 2mm from the crown tip. He then smoothed and softened the edges with a round burr to create a comfortable, natural contour.

With the bite issue corrected, the team performed a complete scale and polish to remove all the accumulated plaque and treat the inflamed gums. Throughout the procedure, Remi’s vitals were monitored constantly, and he remained comfortable and stable under anaesthesia.

Remi’s recovery was excellent. He woke comfortably from anaesthesia and went home the same day with pain relief and detailed aftercare instructions. His mum noticed the difference immediately. Remi was no longer sensitive when eating, and he started using both sides of his mouth equally.

The gum inflammation resolved quickly now that the constant trauma had been eliminated. Within days, Remi’s mouth felt so much better that he was back to giving enthusiastic kisses, and his mum was delighted to report they were always fresh. Dr Geoff scheduled Remi for our Grade 1 Dental Prophylaxis Program, which includes dental checks every six months and professional cleaning under anaesthesia when needed to prevent future problems.

Today, Remi is thriving under the care of Dr Geoff at Vet HQ Double Bay. His dental health is in top condition, with no pain, no inflammation, and excellent oral hygiene. His mum shared, “Remi has been seeing Dr Geoff at Vet HQ in Double Bay for 2 years. Under his care, we have managed multiple tummy issues and improved Remi’s dental health and hygiene. He had a slight overbite with a tooth impacting his bite, causing his gum to be inflamed.

Dr Geoff took X-rays to ensure we could modify the tooth that was impacting his bite. Since then, Remi has been pleased, and his dental health is in good shape. So, the kisses (licks) to mum and dad are always fresh.”