Cherish Precious Memories
State-of-the-Art Dentistry Tailored for Dogs and Cats
Cherish Precious Memories
State-of-the-Art Dentistry Tailored for Dogs and Cats
Dental Care & Oral Surgery
We take oral health seriously because we know it’s the key to your pet’s overall well-being. Our comprehensive dental care and oral surgery services are designed to keep your furry friend’s smile gleaming.
A Detailed Examination
For every pet under our care, a meticulous oral examination is a standard procedure. Our skilled doctors and technicians work in tandem to identify any issues and establish a personalized treatment plan.
The Dental Cleaning Experience
A dental cleaning at Northwood Animal Hospital is a well-orchestrated affair, typically conducted as an outpatient procedure. Here’s what you can expect:
Anesthesia
After a thorough nose-to-tail exam, your pet is anesthetized using injectable drugs, and then intubated to ensure that their airway is always clear and that the level of anesthesia can be swiftly increased or decreased for safety and comfort.
Expert Monitoring
Throughout the cleaning, a trained support staff member closely monitors your pet’s vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, pulse oximetry, ECG, and core body temperature, prioritizing their safety.
Thorough Oral Examination
We begin the comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment (COHAT, commonly called a dental cleaning or prophy) with an in-depth oral exam. During this oral exam, we use an instrument to probe all of the teeth and chart any abnormalities, including loose or fractured teeth, resorptive lesions (similar to cavities in people) or any deep pockets around the teeth indicating periodontal disease, bone loss, or infection.
Digital Dental Radiographs
Digital dental radiographs in veterinary hospitals use advanced digital imaging to quickly capture detailed X-ray images of animals’ teeth, replacing traditional film-based methods. This technology offers benefits like rapid results, enhanced image quality, and reduced radiation exposure, improving overall veterinary care efficiency.
Pain Management
Local nerve blocks are crucial for pain management. These procedures involve strategically administering anesthetics near specific nerves to block pain signals during dental interventions. This targeted approach ensures a more comfortable experience for pets undergoing procedures like extractions, contributing to overall well-being and procedural success.
Scaling and Cleaning
Tartar (also called Calculus) is removed from your pet’s teeth with the precision of an ultrasonic scaler, followed by a meticulous manual cleaning beneath the gumline.
The Polishing Touch
A polishing treatment smooths enamel defects, leaving teeth gleaming.
Seal the Deal
To bolster oral health and prolong the benefit of dental cleaning, we apply Oravet sealant along the gumline of all teeth.
Addressing Issues
If any concerns arise during the procedure, our doctors step in to resolve them. In cases of dental disease, we utilize digital dental x-rays to allow for critical insights, guiding us toward the right treatment.
Your Partner in Pet Care
Rest assured, our doctors will keep you informed every step of the way. If any problems are detected, you’ll receive a call, and together, we’ll decide on the best course of action.
Most pets, even those requiring oral surgery, are ready to head home the same day. You’ll receive detailed post-procedure care instructions, including advice on post dental diet and feeding schedule tips helpful for patients with severe gingivitis or extractions.
A Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
We believe in preventing future problems. During your pet’s discharge, we’ll discuss home care practices and offer recommendations to keep their oral health optimized.
For any questions about your pet’s dental care, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to ensure your pet enjoys a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles.