[Fluffagrams]

There are risks associated with both methods however filing (or burring) is usually seen as a better option for the teeth. The downside to using a file or a burr is that the hamster will need a small amount of anaesthesia for the vets to be able to do this and this carries it's own risks, particularly if your hamster is older or has existing health problems.

Clipping does not always need to be carried out under anaesthesia but this will depend on how tolerant and laid back the hamster is. There is a risk of splitting or breaking the teeth with this method and on occasions the teeth do not always grow back. One of my current Chinese had his teeth trimmed in this method by a locum vet and it actually damaged his bottom teeth so badly that they have never grown back. Consequently his top teeth need weekly maintenance.