Below are a few important things that need to be considered when your pet is in need of routine dentistry, as well as a listing of the steps taken during a dental cleaning.

If you start your puppy off cleaning teeth by age of 3 months then you will not have to take to vet and have cleaned. This is what we do and we do not have to have our dogs use anesthesia. At times we take our dogs to our vet to have teeth cleaned they are so used to it they do not have to use the anesthesia on them.

Pre-anesthesia considerations

-Pets over 7 years of age should have a blood profile and urinalysis run prior to anesthesia to evaluate their overall health status.

-Pets that have severe periodontal disease should be started on antibiotics a week prior to a dental procedure to prevent harmful bacteria from negatively affecting your pet when it's dislodged from the teeth.

ROUTINE DENTAL PROCEDURE

-Complete physical exam

-General anesthesia consisting of isofluorane (a inhalation anesthetic that allows your pet to wake up more quickly and is easier on the older pets kidney and liver).

• Complete oral examination
  Removal of tartar and plaque by use of ultrasonic dental machine. -Removal of bacteria and plaque under the gum line (major cause of periodontal disease).
  Polishing to remove microscopic particles on the surface of tooth and under the gum line.
  Regularly scheduled brushing of teeth will greatly reduce the need for dental cleanings and keep your pets teeth healthy. And remember if you have any questions call your veterinarian.