Dentistry - Important for your pet's overall health

Dental Cleanings for pets are not cosmetic. Inflamed and infected gums can cause discomfort, along with diseased teeth. Bacteria in the mouth can travel through the bloodstream to the organs and can cause disease processes such as heart, kidney or liver disease. These diseases can cause serious damage to the organs and lead to premature death. If gingivitis is not treated, it will progress to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is not treatable. At this stage, there is irreversible bone loss and tooth damage. Roots are also weakened and the animal may experience loose teeth and teeth that simply fall out. Animals may also begin to lose weight. This can lead to other problems associated with improper nutritional intake. Dental treatment will be needed and may result in the extraction of teeth. Most dogs and cats will show no signs of oral pain until problems are severe. Rarely will they stop eating. Gingivitis and periodontal disease is a source of chronic infection and pain. We recommend regular dental check ups and regular dental cleanings. Prevention is key. Below is an outline of our dental procedure though each patient's individual needs are met based on the veterinarian's examaination:

Dental Scaling, Polishing, and Fluoride Prophylaxis Procedure:

1. Patient has been examined, and blood work is normal.
2. Patient must be anesthetized and intubated.
3. Patient must have intravenous catheter and fluid support.
4. Patient must have heart, apnea, and blood pressure monitors.
5. Patient must be on a warming blanket.
6. "Before" digital pictures are taken.
7. Intraoperative medications are given as needed for disease.
8. Anti-microbial rinse is applied to patient's mouth.
9. Ultrasonic scaling, and hand scaling are performed.
10. Rinse and dry patient's mouth.
11. Disclosing solution is applied to check for "hidden" calculus.
12. Electronic polishing of each tooth's surface.
13. Periodontal probing for pocketing of gingiva.
14. Apply fluoride treatment.
15. Full mouth examination by veterinarian.
16. Extractions, radiographs and/or gingival work completed as needed.
17. "After" digital pictures are taken.
18. Patient is moved to recovery for continued observation.
19. Medical record charting of all procedures performed.
20. Patient returns home that afternoon.

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