During a dental procedure, our veterinarians perform several important steps to ensure your pet’s oral health:

1. Pre-Anesthetic Exam: Before the dental procedure, the vet conducts a thorough physical exam and may run blood tests to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
2. Anesthesia: Your pet is given anesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and still during the procedure.
3. Sedated Oral Examination: Once your pet is under anesthesia, the vet performs a detailed examination of the mouth, teeth, and gums. This includes checking for signs of periodontal disease, broken teeth, and other oral issues.
4. Scaling and Polishing: The vet or veterinary assistant uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, both above and below the gumline. After scaling, the teeth are polished to smooth the surfaces and prevent future plaque buildup.
5. Extractions and Treatments: If any teeth are damaged or diseased, the vet may need to extract them. Some puppies also retain their puppy (deciduous) teeth, which can disrupt the permanent adult tooth, so these can also pulled at this time.
6. Post-Procedure Care: After the dental work is completed, your pet is monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. The vet provides instructions for at-home care, including any medications and follow-up appointments.

Regular dental care is crucial for preventing oral diseases and maintaining your pet’s overall health. If you have any concerns about your pet’s dental health, please give us a call to set up a consulation.