Dental Services
Your veterinarian at Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital has recommended a professional teeth cleaning, also known as a dental prophylaxis, to maintain your pet’s oral and overall health. Over time, dental tartar can accumulate on your pet’s teeth, potentially leading to periodontal disease if left untreated. Periodontal disease causes gum recession, infection, pain, and tooth loss. Additionally, advanced dental disease can affect your pets internal organs, such as the heart and kidneys.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A dental cleaning is a routine procedure performed at Inver Grove Heights Animal Hospital. Your pet will be admitted to the hospital for the majority of the day, as general anesthesia is required. Anesthesia ensures your pet’s comfort and safety while allowing the veterinary team to perform:
- A thorough oral examination to identify any visible or hidden dental issues.
- Ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar from the tooth surfaces and below the gumline.
- Polishing to smooth the tooth surfaces, reducing the likelihood of future tartar build-up.
- Digital dental x-rays to detect dental disease below the gumline, such as root infections, fractures, or abscesses, that are not visible to the naked eye.
The Importance of Dental X-Rays
Digital dental x-rays are a critical component of the cleaning process. While tartar and disease may be visible on the surface, many dental problems occur below the gumline and are not detectable during a visual examination. X-rays allow us to:
- Identify underlying dental disease such as root infections, fractures, or abscesses.
- Determine if additional treatments, such as tooth extractions, are necessary to alleviate pain or infection.
If tooth extractions or other treatments are required, the attending veterinarian will contact you if requested during the procedure to explain the findings and discuss next steps. The costs for these additional treatments, including digital x-rays, will vary based on the complexity of the case.
Pre-Anesthetic Blood Work
To ensure your pet’s safety during general anesthesia, we recommend routine pre-anesthetic blood testing be performed within 3 months of your pet’s dental cleaning. This testing helps identify potential underlying health issues and minimizes risks associated with anesthesia.
Blood work can be completed on the day of the procedure or up to 3 advance. Any abnormalities will be reviewed with you by the attending veterinarian.
Home Dental Care
Regular dental cleanings at the veterinary hospital are essential, but ongoing care at home is equally important for maintaining your pet’s oral health. We recommend:
- Brushing your pet’s teeth daily or as often as possible. Use a pet-specific toothpaste and toothbrush to ensure safety and effectiveness.
- Incorporating VOHC-approved dental care products, such as dental chews, oral rinses, and oral gels, into your pet’s routine. Products with the VOHC seal have been proven to help reduce plaque and tartar.
Ask our team for recommendations on home dental care products and techniques that are appropriate for your pet. Together, we can ensure your pet enjoys a healthy, happy smile for years to come!
By prioritizing your pet’s dental health is a vital step toward ensuring their long-term health. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions about the procedure or to schedule your pet’s dental cleaning.
