Oh poor Smitten!! We can all understand why your so upset. That would be very scary to know that she almost died and she has to go back and do it again! I'm sure everything will be ok next time because the vet will know how she reacted this time. Maybe they won't keep her under as long or use something different.
I can't help with the tooth brushing because I don't do mine. I'm sure you can get plenty of advice here though because I know there has been some recent dental work done by some of the PTer's.
I will be praying for Smitten and please be sure to update us on how she is doing.

As for the people at work who made those comments...just think how sad and lonely their lives must be without the love they could recieve from a pet. It is like no other love. Nothing in their earthly lives will ever give them that complete, and true unconditional love. What a shame for them but how lucky for you!