What a Pet's Teeth Cleaning Looks Like

If you are planning to bring your pet in for teeth cleaning, you may have a few questions about what to expect. While it is natural to be a bit anxious about the process, knowing what will take place during your pet's teeth cleaning procedure can help put your mind at ease. 

Here's an overview of what you can expect when you bring your pet in for teeth cleaning at Cliffdale Animal Hospital in Fayetteville, NC.

The Importance of Regular Dental Checkups and Teeth Cleanings

Your pet's dental health is an important part of their overall health and well-being. Just like humans, your pet can suffer from dental diseases, such as gingivitis, periodontal disease, and plaque and tartar buildup. Regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings are essential to identify and treat any existing issues and prevent more serious ones from developing.

Most veterinarians recommend that you bring your pet in for a dental checkup and cleaning at least once a year. During the checkup, the vet will look at your pet's teeth, mouth, and gums for any signs of infection or disease. They will recommend the best treatment plan for your pet if any issues are detected. Additionally, your vet may recommend that your pet undergo professional teeth cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar buildup.

Regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings for your pet can help maintain their oral health and reduce the risk of dental disease. Not only will this improve their quality of life, but it may also extend their life span. 

What Happens Before the Procedure

Before the procedure, your vet will likely want to discuss your pet's current dental health and answer any questions you may have. Be honest with your vet about any existing dental problems, such as bad breath or excessive drooling. This way, the vet can determine if a teeth cleaning is necessary.

Your vet may also do an overall physical examination and take x-rays of your pet's mouth to get a better look at the condition of their teeth and gums. During this time, they may also look for signs of other health issues that could be related to your pet's dental health.

To ensure that your pet is comfortable during the procedure, the vet may give them full sedation. Your vet will discuss the best option for your pet before the procedure begins. They may also suggest additional treatments that they think may benefit your pet's dental health, such as antibiotics or fluoride treatments.

It is important to follow all instructions from your vet and let them know of any medications or supplements your pet may be taking so they can determine the best course of action for the teeth cleaning procedure.

The Procedure Itself

Once the vet has determined what needs to be done, they will start the teeth cleaning process.

The vet will begin by removing plaque and tartar buildup from your pet's teeth using a scaler and ultrasonic cleaner. This helps to remove any bacteria that may have accumulated on the surface of the teeth. After the plaque and tartar are removed, the vet will use a polisher to give the teeth a smooth finish. This helps to make it harder for plaque and tartar to accumulate again in the future.

Once the teeth have been cleaned, the vet may also recommend a fluoride treatment to further protect your pet's teeth from decay. The fluoride treatment is generally administered by placing a gel directly onto the tooth surfaces. This gel helps to strengthen the enamel and helps to prevent cavities from forming.

After all these steps, your pet's teeth should be free from plaque and tartar buildup and look healthy. The vet will then provide you with necessary aftercare instructions, such as what type of food and treats to give your pet and how often they should have their teeth checked.

After the Procedure

After your pet's teeth cleaning procedure is complete, the vet will check their teeth and gums for any remaining issues and make sure they are not in any pain or discomfort. The vet may recommend that you bring your pet in for follow-up visits to ensure that everything is healing properly and that there are no further problems.

You can expect your pet to feel more comfortable and have better breath. However, if you notice any signs of discomfort or unusual behavior, it is important to contact your vet right away.

It is also a good idea to brush your pet's teeth regularly after the procedure to keep their mouth healthy and clean. Be sure to use toothpaste specifically designed for animals, and never use human toothpaste on your pet. It is also important to feed them a balanced diet and provide plenty of chew toys and dental treats to help keep their teeth clean.

Finally, be sure to keep up with regular dental checkups for your pet. This will help prevent any further issues from arising and ensure that your pet's mouth stays healthy and happy.

Conclusion

Regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings for pets are essential to maintain their overall health and well-being. The procedure is usually safe and straightforward and can be done with minimal discomfort for your pet. While there may be some post-procedure soreness, it should subside within a few days. 

Be sure to follow your vet's advice and instructions to ensure the best outcome for your pet. Regular brushing of your pet's teeth, along with a good diet, can help reduce the likelihood of further dental problems in the future. If you have any further questions or concerns about your pet's dental health, be sure to contact your vet right away.

Contact Cliffdale Animal Hospital in Fayetteville, NC

At Cliffdale Animal Hospital, our experienced and friendly staff is here to help you and your pet. We understand that a pet's teeth and overall health are important, and we strive to provide the best care for your furry friend. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a teeth cleaning and dental checkup for your pet!