Understanding Dental Procedures for Cats and Dogs

Routine dental care is essential for your pet's health. Dental procedures help prevent disease, discomfort, and complications that can impact their overall well-being!

Dr. Katherine White

Signs Your Pet May Need a Dental Procedure

Consider a professional dental cleaning if you notice any of the following:

  • Bad breath (persistent odor from the mouth).
  • Head sensitivity or reluctance to have their face touched.
  • Swelling on the face, which could indicate an infection.
  • Findings during a wellness exam—your vet may recommend a cleaning based on their assessment.

Why Dental Procedures Require Anesthesia

Dental procedures for pets are performed under anesthesia for two key reasons:

  • Pain management: Dental disease can be painful, and anesthesia ensures a comfortable experience.
  • Accurate diagnosis: Dental X-rays, which help evaluate tooth roots and bone health, can only be taken under anesthesia.

Unlike humans, dogs and cats have much larger tooth roots designed for gripping and tearing. X-rays allow veterinarians to determine whether a tooth should be extracted.

What Happens During a Dental Procedure?

Here’s what to expect when your pet undergoes a dental cleaning:

  1. Fasting: Your pet should not eat breakfast before the procedure.
  2. Pre-anesthetic testing: Blood work ensures your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
  3. Anesthesia administration: An IV catheter is placed, and a tracheal tube is inserted to protect their airway.
  4. Cleaning and X-rays: The teeth are scaled, polished, and X-rays are taken to assess dental health.
  5. Tooth extraction (if needed): If an abscess or severe bone loss is detected, a tooth may need to be surgically removed.

Most pets go home the same evening after their procedure. If extractions are required, the recovery process may take a little longer.

The Impact of Dental Care on Overall Health

Regular dental care can extend your pet's lifespan by up to two years. Poor oral health allows bacteria to enter the bloodstream, affecting vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean helps protect their overall health.

Schedule a Dental Exam

If you're unsure whether your pet needs a dental procedure, schedule an exam with your veterinarian. Regular check-ups help identify dental issues before they become serious!

Check Out More Pet Care Videos

If you have questions, we would love to answer them for you. Please give us a call at the office at (214) 833-9821, or you can email us at info@hpanimalhospital.com. Our staff would love to talk with you!

Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.