Q: "My Shih Tzu is 12, has some minor health problems, but also has dental problems. Our veterinarian wants to clean and polish his teeth. I am worried about putting him under anesthesia at his age.

Pure μ-opioids (methadone, morphine, hydromorphone) provide profound analgesia and are preferred for extensive dental procedures. Partial agonists (buprenorphine) are suitable for moderate pain.