Keeping up with your pet's dental health is extremely important. Dogs and cats develop dental disease just like people do. Imagine what your teeth would be like if you didn't brush or floss for 6 months, 1 year, or several years! Dental disease results in chronic infection in the mouth that causes heart disease, lung infections, diabetes, and can even eat away at the bones in the face. Plan to have your pet's teeth and gums checked at least once per year by your veterinarian for early signs of problems. Pets that receive routine dental cleanings typically extend their lifespan by an additional 3 years!
Understanding Veterinary Dentistry And Who Should Perform It
Veterinary dentistry encompasses a range of procedures that ensure the oral health of pets. This includes cleaning, adjusting, filing, extracting, or repairing teeth, as well as addressing other oral health concerns. Given the complexity and precision required, these procedures should ideally be carried out by a veterinarian or a board-certified veterinary dentist. In some regions, veterinary technicians may perform specific dental tasks, but always under a veterinarian's supervision.
The Veterinary Dental Process
The journey to ensuring your pet's dentall health begins with a comprehensive oral examination by a veterinarian. This may involve taking radiographs (x-rays) to assess the condition of the jaw and tooth roots that lie beneath the gumline. Since much of dental disease occurs out of sight, a detailed dental cleaning and evaluation are necessary. This cleaning, performed under anesthesia, involves scaling to remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing, akin to human dental cleanings.
Dog - Dental Grading 4 (Before and after)
Why Anesthesia is Essential
Unlike humans, pets cannot comprehend the necessity of dental procedures. As a result, they may squirm, try to escape, or even bite during treatments. Anesthesia plays a crucial role in minimizing stress and pain, allowing veterinarians to conduct thorough cleanings and procedures without the risk of injury from movement. Additionally, anesthesia ensures pets remain still for radiographs, which is critical for obtaining accurate images.
While the idea of anesthesia can be concerning, modern advancements have significantly reduced its risks. The benefits of effective dental care far outweigh these risks, and most pets are able to return home the same day. We provide pre-anesthetic medications to help your pet relax, intravenous fluids for cardiovascular support, and start pain control before the procedure ever begins. Your pet will have designated surgery team members monitoring them at all times while they are in our care. We will communicate with you in detail upon arrival, directly after the procedure is complete, then again at the time of discharge. Constant communication between our staff and you, the client, is ensured to make sure your pet is well cared for through the entire process. Appropriate pain control is always provided, if necessary, following the procedure to make sure everyone is comfortable at home.
Conclusion
Veterinary dentistry is a vital aspect of pet healthcare that requires specialized skills and equipment. The use of anesthesia during these procedures not only ensures the safety and comfort of pets but also allows for more effective treatment. Regular veterinary dental care can prevent serious health issues and contribute to the overall well-being of your furry companions. For more information on species-specific procedures, visit our Cat Dentistry and Dog Dentistry service pages. If you have any questions about your pet's dental needs, feel free to call us at 912-525-0255 or schedule an appointment today!