In a dental cleaning procedure, the dog is given premedication and an IV catheter is placed. The dog is then gently placed under anesthesia and a tracheal tube is inserted. The dog is started on gas anesthesia (isoflurane and oxygen) and positioned for the dental procedure. Electronic monitoring devices such as ECG, pulse oximetry, blood pressure cuff, and a temperature probe are used. Additionally, a nurse anesthetist watches over the dog. External heat support with blankets is provided to keep the dog comfortable during the procedure.

Your dog needs anesthesia for proper teeth cleaning and assessment because dogs will not hold still while the procedure is being done. Anesthesia protects your dog's airway from water used during the cleaning process. If water enters the lungs, it can cause aspiration pneumonia. Anesthesia also allows the veterinarian to take dental x-rays, clean the surface of the teeth, and probe and clean under the gum line safely.

Yes, pain prevention and control are crucial during dental procedures. At Blue Oasis Pet Hospital, all dental patients receive pre-anesthetic pain relievers. If extractions are required, local nerve blocks are administered before the procedure, and anti-inflammatory medications are given during anesthesia. Post-operative pain medications are also prescribed based on the procedure performed.

A dental cleaning appointment for a dog with stage one periodontal disease (tartar and gingivitis) typically takes about an hour. The time required for the procedure can increase depending on the severity of the dental issues discovered during the exam.

Yes, dental x-rays are a critical part of a dog's dental assessment, as they allow the veterinarian to examine areas of the tooth that are not visible to the naked eye. Dental x-rays are mandatory at Blue Oasis Pet Hospital during dental exams.

Preparation for a dental exam might include providing calming medications, antibiotics, or pain medications as recommended by your veterinarian. You should also have soft or canned food available for your dog after the procedure. It is essential to follow your veterinarian's specific instructions, as each office's requirements might vary.

Dogs often hide their dental pain, making it difficult to determine if they are experiencing discomfort. Some signs of dental pain might include lethargy, hiding in unusual places, dropping food from their mouth, or favoring one side when chewing. However, dogs rarely cry out in pain, even if they have a fractured tooth or are biting down on something.

Your dog should have a dental exam at least once a year, as part of their annual checkup.

Determining if your dog needs a dental exam can be difficult, as dogs are usually quiet about their dental needs. Bad breath or chewing issues might be the only noticeable signs. Most of the time, veterinarians discover oral health problems during your dog's general checkup or preventive care exam.

No, there are no chew toys on the market that can effectively brush your dog's teeth. While some may be marketed as such, the mechanical action of chewing does not provide the same brushing technique as using a toothbrush. For a comprehensive list of recommended dental care products, visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council's website at vohc.org.