Welcome Glassgirl! Sounds like we have
lots in common! I'm 57 (
when did
that happen???), also do glass and have an older cat (but only 15). I also have a miniature poodle that likes to tease her. She's now getting her comeuppence for when she was younger teased my 18yo poodle. She realized he was only able to see shadows and would suddenly put her paws in front of his face to watch him get startled. Old dog-young cat is now old cat-young dog. When she's in the mood, she plays his game, otherwise she ignores him and gives him the ole hairy eye-ball!
Maybe your vet wants to get the results of the bloodwork before deciding what to do about the tooth. I would still ask lots of questions to be sure she gets the help she needs. As you said, she's depending on you to help her.