Dental care is one of the most overlooked aspects of a pet’s health. Many dogs and cats show no obvious signs of discomfort even when dental disease is present, which is why professional cleanings are often recommended as part of routine care.
If your veterinarian has suggested a dental cleaning, you might be wondering what actually happens during the procedure and why it is necessary. Understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable and confident about your pet’s care.
Why Dental Cleanings Are Important
Plaque begins to form on your pet’s teeth soon after eating. If not removed, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be brushed away at home.
Over time, this buildup can lead to gum inflammation, infection, and tooth damage. Dental disease can also affect overall health, as bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and impact organs such as the heart and kidneys.
Professional dental cleanings go beyond what can be achieved with brushing alone and help prevent these complications.
Pre Cleaning Examination And Testing
Before the procedure, your pet will undergo a thorough examination to ensure they are healthy enough for anesthesia.
This may include blood tests to evaluate organ function and identify any underlying issues. These tests help the veterinary team plan a safe and appropriate approach for your pet.
Your veterinarian will also assess your pet’s teeth and gums to determine the level of cleaning and whether any extractions may be needed.
Why Anesthesia Is Necessary
Unlike humans, pets cannot remain still or understand instructions during a dental procedure. Anesthesia is used to keep them comfortable and allow a complete and thorough cleaning.
Anesthesia also ensures that the veterinarian can clean below the gumline, where most dental disease develops. This area cannot be properly treated in awake pets.
Throughout the procedure, your pet is closely monitored to ensure their safety.
The Cleaning Process Step By Step
Once your pet is under anesthesia, the dental cleaning begins.
• Teeth are scaled to remove plaque and tartar from the surface
• Special tools are used to clean below the gumline
• Each tooth is carefully examined for damage or disease
• Dental X rays may be taken to assess roots and bone health
• Teeth are polished to smooth the surface and reduce future buildup
If any teeth are severely damaged or infected, extractions may be recommended to relieve pain and prevent further issues.
Dental X Rays And Why They Matter
A significant portion of dental disease occurs below the surface of the gums, where it cannot be seen during a basic exam.
Dental X rays allow veterinarians to evaluate the roots of the teeth and surrounding bone. This helps identify hidden infections, fractures, or other issues that may not be visible otherwise.
In many cases, X rays reveal problems that would go untreated without imaging.
Recovery After The Procedure
After the cleaning, your pet will be monitored as they wake up from anesthesia. Most pets recover quickly and are able to go home the same day.
It is normal for pets to feel slightly tired for the rest of the day. If extractions were performed, your veterinarian may provide pain medication and specific feeding instructions.
Most pets return to their normal routine within a short period, often with improved comfort and appetite.
How To Maintain Dental Health At Home
Professional cleanings are an important part of dental care, but ongoing maintenance at home also plays a key role.
Regular brushing, dental treats, and appropriate diets can help reduce plaque buildup between cleanings.
Your veterinarian can recommend products and routines that are best suited for your pet’s needs.
Supporting Long Term Health Through Dental Care
Dental health has a direct impact on your pet’s overall well being. Addressing dental disease early can prevent pain, infection, and more serious health issues down the line.
At Killarney Animal Hospital, professional dental cleanings are performed with a focus on safety, thorough care, and long term health.
If your pet has bad breath, visible tartar, or has not had a dental check recently, you can contact Killarney Animal Hospital at 604-433-5500 to schedule an evaluation.
Taking care of your pet’s teeth is one of the simplest ways to support their comfort and health for years to come.