Professional pet teeth cleaning is a critical step in maintaining your pet's oral and overall health. Unlike at-home dental care, professional cleaning involves thorough cleaning under anesthesia to remove tartar, address gum disease, and prevent serious complications.
Why Professional Cleaning is Important
- Prevention of Dental Disease
- Without regular cleaning, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to periodontal disease.
- Gum infections can cause tooth loss and systemic health problems affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.
- Thorough Cleaning
- Professional cleanings reach below the gumline, where bacteria can cause the most damage.
- This level of cleaning is impossible to achieve with at-home methods alone.
- Early Detection of Issues
- Veterinarians can identify and treat issues like fractured teeth, oral tumors, and abscesses during a cleaning.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?
- Pre-Cleaning Examination
- Your vet conducts a physical exam and may perform blood tests to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
- Anesthesia Administration
- Cleaning under anesthesia ensures your pet remains still and comfortable while allowing the vet to work safely and thoroughly.
- Scaling and Polishing
- Plaque and tartar are removed using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments.
- Teeth are polished to smooth surfaces, reducing future plaque buildup.
- X-rays
- Dental X-rays may be taken to evaluate the health of tooth roots and surrounding bone.
- Post-Cleaning Care
- After the procedure, your pet is monitored during recovery and sent home with aftercare instructions.
How Often Should Pets Have Professional Cleanings?
- Frequency depends on your pet's breed, age, diet, and at-home dental care.
- Most pets benefit from an annual cleaning, but some may require more frequent cleanings based on their oral health needs.
Risks and Considerations
- Anesthesia Concerns
- While modern anesthesia is safe, it carries some risks, especially for senior pets or those with underlying health issues.
- Pre-anesthetic testing reduces these risks.
- Cost
- Professional cleaning can range from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on your location and the complexity of care.
- Post-Procedure Sensitivity
- Your pet may experience mild discomfort, but this is usually temporary.
At-Home Maintenance After Cleaning
To prolong the benefits of professional cleaning:
- Brush your pet’s teeth daily with vet-approved toothpaste.
- Use dental chews and water additives.
- Schedule regular check-ups with your vet to monitor oral health.
Professional teeth cleaning is an essential investment in your pet’s health, preventing painful dental disease and costly complications. Combining professional care with a consistent at-home routine ensures your pet enjoys a healthy and happy life.