Dentistry for your Pet
An x-ray of a dog's upper jaw, showing many teeth and their roots
A professional dental prophylaxis is more involved than just removing the visible calculus (tartar) on the teeth. A prophylaxis involves close evaluation of the teeth and supporting structures, removal of all calculus and plaque, both above and below the gum line, cleaning and flushing of the pockets below the gum line, polishing the cleaned teeth, and fluoride application to the teeth.
A general anaesthetic is required to perform these procedures effectively and safely. This anaesthetic is the same type of inhalant that is used in human patients. This is an extremely safe and reliable anesthetic agent.
Dental Prophylaxis at our Clinic:
- Antibiotics are usually given prior to the procedure to allow adequate blood levels to be present at the time of the dentistry. The antibiotic will help protect the body from the showering of bacteria through the blood while the teeth are being cleaned.
- The mouth is rinsed with a disinfectant solution (0.2% chlorhexidine) to reduce the numbers of bacteria prior to the procedure.
- Intravenous fluids may be administered to older pets to help support blood pressure, and a warm water heating blanket is used to help maintain body temperature during the anaesthetic.
- The teeth are explored and probed around the roots and any abnormalities are charted.
- Supragingival scaling is performed to remove all visible calculus (tartar).
- Subgingival scaling removes all the calculus (tartar) below the gumline that is not visible to our eyes. Root planing is then performed to smooth any rough surfaces on the roots. Subgingival curettage removes debris from the lining of the gums in the pockets below the gum line.
- The teeth are explored again to detect any remaining calculus (tartar).
- The teeth are polished using a special prophy paste.
- The sulcus or pocket below the gum line is irrigated with 0.2% chlorhexidine solution to flush out any remaining debris.
- Fluoridation - Fluoride is applied, and set for the recommended time. The teeth are then thoroughly rinsed.
- Homecare - It is very important to follow-up a professional dental prophylaxis with a regular homecare schedule in order to maintain a clean, healthy mouth for your pet.
The cost for the above procedures will vary according to:
- The amount of calculus (tartar) present on the teeth.
- The time required to perform the procedure.
- The degree of dental disease present.
X-rays and Extractions
Dental x-rays and/or extractions of affected teeth, may be required after careful examination.
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