Just like humans, our pets need regular dental care to keep their mouths healthy and free from disease. Professional dental cleanings aren’t just about making your pet’s pearly whites shine; they are crucial for identifying problems like gum disease, broken teeth, and infections that could lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. If you’ve been curious about what happens during a professional pet dental cleaning, you’re in the right place! Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Is Pet Dental Care Important?
Dental care for pets goes beyond fresh breath and clean teeth. Poor dental hygiene can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, resulting in gum disease (periodontal disease) and other complications. If untreated, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Regular cleanings, both at home and professionally, are essential for preventing these health issues and ensuring your furry friend stays happy and healthy for years to come.
What Happens During a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning?
When you take your pet for a professional dental cleaning, it’s a multi-step process that ensures both their comfort and the best possible care. Here’s what happens step by step:
1. Pre-procedure Examination
Before the cleaning begins, your veterinarian or veterinary technician conducts a full physical exam to make sure your pet is healthy enough for the procedure. Bloodwork might be recommended to check for any underlying health conditions, as dental cleanings usually require anesthesia. Your vet will discuss your pet’s specific needs and any concerns.
2. Anesthesia Administration
Unlike human dental visits, pets need to be under anesthesia for a professional cleaning. This ensures their safety and reduces stress during the procedure. Anesthesia allows the vet to clean below the gumline, examine the teeth in detail, and perform any necessary extractions or treatments without causing discomfort to your pet.
3. Scaling and Polishing
Once your pet is under anesthesia:
- Scaling: The vet uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth and below the gumline. This step is essential for preventing gum disease and stopping bacteria buildup.
- Polishing: After scaling, the teeth are polished to smooth their surfaces, making it harder for plaque to stick to them in the future.
4. Dental X-rays
Your pet’s mouth will likely be examined with dental X-rays. This helps the vet spot issues such as fractures, infections, or decay beneath the gumline that may not be visible during the physical exam.
5. Extractions (if needed)
If the vet identifies severely damaged or infected teeth that cannot be saved, they may perform extractions. This may sound intimidating, but removing problematic teeth is a necessary step to prevent further pain or infections in your pet.
6. Post-cleaning Examination
Before your pet wakes up, the vet will do a final check to ensure the cleaning is complete and note any follow-up care instructions for you to take home.
What Happens After the Procedure?
After the cleaning, your pet will remain under observation until they wake up safely from anesthesia. Most pets go home the same day, though they may feel groggy for a short time. Your vet will provide aftercare instructions, which may include:
- Feeding soft food for a few days.
- Administering medication for pain or infection, if necessary.
- Monitoring your pet for any unusual behavior or reactions.
The Bottom Line
A professional dental cleaning is one of the best things you can do for your pet’s health. It not only leaves their teeth sparkling clean but also ensures any hidden oral health problems are addressed before they escalate. By combining professional care with at-home dental maintenance, you’ll help your furry friend enjoy a comfortable, happy, and healthy life.