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Referring Veterinarians
Referral Form | Common Conditions Treated and Services Offered | Frequently Asked Questions | Testimonials | Oral Biopsy Recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions:
- I have a client I would like to refer to you. What is the next step?
We ask that you fill out our Referral Form and inform your client to contact us to schedule a consultation.
- If I reach out regarding a patient, will you provide an estimate for the recommended procedure I would like to refer?
Since every patient is different in their oral needs, health status, and other factors, we wait until after the doctor performs their exam during the consultation to build an estimate that is tailored specifically to your patient's case. Many aspects of our procedures can influence the amount of our estimates. If the owner is asking for a price, you may let them know that our consultation fee is $215.
- Who are Dr. Davis and Dr. Tetlow?
You can learn more about our doctors on our About Us page.
- I am in the middle of a dental procedure and may need to refer the patient. Is there anything I should do?
We understand that it may be difficult to abort a procedure. However, if you are ever contemplating referral during a procedure, we ask that you stop, close any open gingiva/skin and wake the patient up. If the patient has a jaw fracture a tape muzzle may be applied until the patient can be treated here.
- Why is board certification for veterinary dental specialists important?
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Board of Veterinary Specialties recognizes only medical and surgical specialists that have completed board certification through their specialty organization. In North America, there is only one AVMA recognized specialty college for veterinary dentistry in horses and pets: the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC). A Board Certified Veterinary DentistTM and Board Certified Equine Veterinary DentistTM are titles reserved only for veterinarians who have successfully completed residency training through the AVDC and have passed the AVDC’s certifying examinations. These dental specialists, called diplomates, are uniquely qualified to perform advanced dentistry and oral surgery for patients, teach in veterinary schools, and provide continuing education in dentistry to veterinarians in general practice.
- Why should I tell my client to see a specialist?
Dentistry is a very broad and complex subject, which includes such disciplines as periodontics, endodontics, orthodontics, and oral surgery. Our doctors have years of experience and advanced training in the diagnosis and treatment of oral disease in animals. They are required to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and experience in order to be accepted as a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College. As general practitioners, veterinarians have training to manage most common dental problems in animal patients. Sometimes, however, complicated dental problems are recognized which the general practitioner may not have the equipment or the training to manage. Our doctors will maintain close communication with you, to learn about the patient’s overall health as well as the dental problem, ahead of the client’s appointment. Following treatment, they will send a complete report to you including photographs and diagnostic imaging of your pet for you hospital records.
Testimonials:
"I referred a Shetland Sheepdog named Rio to Animal Dental Specialists of Upstate New York for advanced dental care. Rio was struggling with a severe malocclusion that left him unable to fully close his mouth—he was uncomfortable and not thriving.
Since his treatment, the transformation has been remarkable. He's now eating well, active, playful, and clearly much more comfortable. The care he received has made a huge difference in his quality of life.
I also really appreciated the clear communication throughout the process. The team kept me well-informed and even provided helpful images and updates, which was incredibly valuable.
Thank you to the skilled team at Animal Dental Specialists of Upstate New York—you’ve truly improved this patient’s life."
— Dr. Tradel Harris, VCA Colonial Animal Hospital
Oral Biopsy Recommendations:
Many patients are referred to ADSUNY for treatment of an oral mass. In most cases, a biopsy of the mass should be obtained BEFORE mass removal. This is necessary because the surgical margins for curative-intent surgery are based upon tumor type and anticipated biological behavior. While we routinely perform biopsy first followed by excisional surgery, treatment can be expedited if referring veterinarians could obtain a biopsy of the lesion first. Our preferred veterinary pathologists (listed below) are those with extensive experience in examining oral tissues.
HOW TO OBTAIN A BIOPSY OF AN ORAL MASS
Step One: Take digital photographs of the area in question
- An image showing the mass and surrounding tissues, and a close-up image
Step Two: Measure the mass with a ruler or dental probe
Step Three: Take a dental radiograph of the area (if possible)
Step Four: Collect the specimen
- Take the sample from the center of the mass lesion
- A 6 mm biopsy punch or wedge-shaped excision with a scalpel can be used for soft tissue masses.
- If possible, avoid areas of active inflammation
- Be sure the sample contains a deep, representative piece of the mass rather than a superficial sample.
- Close the wound using wide bites of absorbable suture
- If there is bony involvement on the radiograph, try to include bone in the biopsy
- A Michelle trephine or Jamshidi bone biopsy needle can be useful. A section cut affected bone or with a bur or rongeurs could also be used.
Step Five: Send out for histopathology. You may use the laboratory of your choice. Veterinary pathologists with expertise reading oral tissues include:
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