What Happens At A Dental Exam?

You may have heard before that pets need to go to the dentist just as often as humans do. Is this true? In short, yes! Proper preventative steps for your pet include comprehensive dental care and dental exams every 6-12 months.  

Want to learn more about what happens during a dental exam at the vet? Read more to find out.  

Annual Wellness 

During your pet's Annual Wellness appointment, the doctor will examine your pet's teeth and gum line. At this time they will discuss whether or not a dental cleaning should be performed. 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning? 

• Routine prophylaxis removes the plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. Your pet’s teeth are also polished and checked for periodontal disease. 
• Digital dental radiographs or x-rays are used to find problems in the teeth, gums, and joints that cannot be seen with our eyes. 

When a pet hasn’t been to the dentist in a long time, they may be in need of other interventions, like:  

• Dental extractions remove teeth that are loose, diseased, or causing chronic pain or carrying harmful bacteria and disease. 

To make pets as comfortable as possible during their dental exam, they will be supported similarly to a veterinary surgical patient, including: 

• continual monitoring when anesthesia is used 
• intravenous (IV) fluids 
• blanket to maintain body temperature 

Why Are Regular Dental Exams So Important? 

Preventive care can avoid unnecessary pain and illness for your loved one. Also, identifying issues early can limit the damage. For example, when periodontal disease is detected and treated early, your pet can avoid potentially greater (more painful and expensive) problems. 

Our staff is continually trained on the top and most up-to-date dental care practices, so you can be sure your pet is receiving the best care. 

Can’t remember the last time your pet had a dental appointment? Your pet is likely overdue - schedule an appointment now.