November 15, 2024

Dental hygiene and care are of utmost importance for any pet, be it a dog or a cat. Dental diseases are extremely common among your friendly pets. Cleaning your pet’s teeth is important no matter their age or breed. However, dental care has ways taken a back seat. 

Fortunately, the animal vet in Bradenton, FL offers a comprehensive and compassionate approach towards oral health in pets through an in-depth oral cleaning to improve oral health in them. 

What is the importance of pet dental cleaning?

Professional dental cleanings for pets help eliminate plaque and bacteria above and below a dog or cat’s gum line. Regular dental brushing at home can only reach easy and easily accessible areas. Thus, they require professional cleanings to reach all areas of the mouth. Additionally, these professional cleanings are accompanied by thorough periodontal probing, a complete oral exam, and full mouth radiographs. In some cases, extensive dental procedures like tooth extractions are also performed if required. 

The process of a pet dental cleaning

Though their anatomy is different, the procedure for dental cleaning in both dogs and cats is similar. Here is a detailed guide to the process involved in a pet dental cleaning:

  • Physical examination and diagnostic testing 
      • A complete body exam is conducted to check the functioning of each organ.
      • If there is any abnormalities detected, the doctor may alter the anesthesia dosage, or delay the dental procedures until other health concerns are resolved. 
  • Sedation with general anesthesia 
      • Anesthesia is essential to perform dental procedures like cleaning to ease pain and discomfort.
      • The dosage will depend on the age, weight, breed, and their health needs. 
      • Throughout the procedure, your pet’s vitals will be checked. 
  • Digital dental x-rays
      • Pets are usually recommended to undergo a CT scan to obtain full mouth digital radiographs before proceeding with the cleaning. 
  • Cleaning the teeth
      • Ultrasonic scalers are used to remove any plaque or calculus 
  • Tooth polishing and sealant 
      • Special polishing will be provided to make the teeth smooth and remove any scratches
      • An invisible sealant is also coated to prevent harmful bacteria from attaching to the tooth surface 
  • Irrigation
    • Finally, the pet’s mouth will be irrigated and cleaned to remove any residual debris 

If you are worried about your pet’s dental health, fret no longer. Get their oral cavity cleaned through an animal vet specially trained to handle pets. Regular cleanings are crucial for improving your pet’s oral health and overall well-being.