Dental Procedure FAQs
What does a dental procedure include?
The procedure begins with an oral examination and dental X-rays performed under general anesthesia. Unhealthy and damaged teeth are extracted, if necessary. The remaining teeth are cleaned and polished, and a fluoride treatment is applied.
Why does my pet need to be anesthetized?
Pets are anesthetized for dental procedures for their safety. Anesthesia protects your pet while sharp instruments are in use and their breathing tube prevents them from aspirating fluid or debris into their lungs.
Is anesthesia safe?
There is a risk associated with anesthesia and our team takes several steps to minimize this, starting with a thorough pre-anesthetic exam and testing. Once it’s determined to be safe to proceed, an anesthetic plan will be devised specific to your pet’s age, breed, and procedure. Your pet’s vital signs are monitored continuously during the procedure, and they will be under the care of a surgical technician as they recover. Warming blankets are used to maintain normal body temperature during surgery and your pet will recover in a cozy and comfortable bed.
How is it determined if extractions are needed?
We do our best to preserve your pet’s teeth and will not recommend extractions unless they are necessary. The following scenarios may warrant extraction of the tooth:
- Broken tooth with the inner pulp (nerve and blood vessels) exposed
- Loose tooth
- Tooth with an infected root noted on X-rays
- Tooth with significant bone loss noted on exam and/or X-rays
- Loss of tooth structure due to resorption of the tooth
Will my pet be in pain afterward?
Pain is treated in a variety of ways to ensure that your pet is comfortable. Being under general anesthesia prevents your pet from feeling pain during the procedure. Local nerve blocks are applied to numb extractions sites. Cold laser therapy is used to treat pain and inflammation of the gums, and promotes healing of extraction sites. Injectable pain medication and anti-inflammatories are given in the hospital and then followed up with oral or topical medications to provide pain relief at home.
What should I do to prepare for my pet’s dental procedure?
- Feed your pet their normal dinner and then feed another small snack at bedtime. Your pet can have access to water over night.
- Do not feed your pet the morning of the procedure.
- Administer daily medications as usual unless otherwise instructed by the veterinarian. If your vet has prescribed anxiety-relieving medication to be given on the morning of the procedure, it can be given with a small treat.
- Be sure to walk your dog the morning of the procedure. We wish to avoid having your pet urinate or defecate on themselves during anesthesia or in recovery.
- Arrive at the scheduled drop-off time (between 8:00 – 8:30).
- Set up a quiet spot where your pet can continue to recover when they get home.
- Have soft food available to eat after the procedure.
What can I expect during my pet’s recovery?
- You may notice the effects of anesthesia on the first night at home. Your pet may be groggy, uncoordinated, or whiney. Some pets may experience temporary urinary incontinence.
- Your pet can eat after anesthesia when they get home. Start with a small portion of food to avoid vomiting. If your pet is still hungry, you can feed another small portion.
- Most pets will be back to normal by the following morning. With proper care, gum tissue heals rather quickly. Be sure to restrict your pet’s activity to avoid complications with healing – this means no hard food, chew toys, tug of war, etc.
How can I maintain my pet’s healthy mouth?
- Brushing the teeth or giving dental chews on a daily basis help reduce plaque build up and tartar formation. You will be sent home with a toothbrush and toothpaste sample to use after your pet’s dental cleaning.
- Don’t let your pet chew on hard bones, antlers, hooves, etc. These can break the teeth.
- Have your pet’s teeth professionally cleaned once a year.
Please contact our office with additional questions. We are here to help!