30 Aug What Happens During Your Pet’s Dental Checkup at Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin
Ensuring your pet’s health is a top priority, and one of the most crucial aspects of their overall well-being is their dental health. Just as regular dental visits are essential for humans, our pets require routine dental checkups to maintain healthy teeth and gums. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, we provide a comprehensive dental care experience to ensure that your pet receives the highest quality of care. Here’s what you can expect during your pet’s dental checkup.
The Morning of the Dental Checkup: Drop-Off and Preparations
Your pet’s dental checkup day begins early in the morning when you drop them off at our clinic. This initial part of the day is vital as it sets the stage for a successful and smooth procedure. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by our friendly and knowledgeable staff, who will guide you through the check-in process. During this time, you’ll have the opportunity to review and complete any necessary paperwork, which will provide us with important information about your pet’s medical history, current medications, and any specific concerns you may have.
Once the paperwork is reviewed and completed, we will address any questions or concerns you might have about the procedure. It’s essential for us to ensure that you feel comfortable and informed before you leave your pet in our care. After the paperwork is finalized, you’ll say goodbye to your pet for the day. While it’s always difficult to leave your furry friend, rest assured that they are in the hands of experienced professionals who are dedicated to providing the best care possible.
Pre-Anesthetic Examination and Preparations
After you leave, our team begins the process of preparing your pet for their dental procedure. The first step is taking your pet’s vital signs, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature. This pre-anesthetic examination is crucial to assess your pet’s overall health and ensure they are fit to undergo anesthesia. Additionally, we may perform bloodwork if indicated. Blood tests help us evaluate your pet’s internal organ function, which is important for determining how well they might tolerate anesthesia. This step is especially significant for older pets or those with pre-existing health conditions.
Once the pre-anesthetic exam and any necessary bloodwork are completed, we proceed with administering premedication. This medication is designed to relax your pet and begin the process of preparing them for general anesthesia. Premedication is a crucial component of the anesthetic process, as it helps minimize stress and discomfort, making the experience as smooth and safe as possible for your pet.
The Procedure: Anesthesia, Imaging, and Dental Cleaning
Once the premedication has taken effect, we move on to the next phase of the procedure: inducing general anesthesia. This step is carefully monitored by our skilled veterinary technicians and anesthesiologist to ensure your pet remains safe and comfortable throughout the entire process. Once your pet is fully anesthetized and asleep, we proceed with the dental procedure.
The first step while your pet is under anesthesia is obtaining detailed imaging of their teeth and mouth. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, we utilize advanced technology, including CT scans and full-mouth radiographs, to capture a comprehensive view of your pet’s dental structures. These images are invaluable in identifying any underlying issues that may not be visible during a routine oral examination. The CT scan provides detailed cross-sectional images of the jaw, teeth, and surrounding structures, allowing us to detect abnormalities such as tumors, bone loss, or tooth root infections.
Following the imaging, our technicians begin the process of scaling and polishing your pet’s teeth. Scaling involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth’s surfaces and below the gumline. This step is critical in preventing periodontal disease, a common and potentially serious condition in pets. After scaling, the teeth are polished to smooth the surfaces, which helps reduce the likelihood of future plaque accumulation.
The Dentist’s Assessment: Measuring and Diagnosing
Once the scaling and polishing are complete, our dental specialist steps in to conduct a thorough assessment of your pet’s teeth. This assessment involves a series of detailed measurements on every tooth. The dentist checks for various indicators of dental health, including the depth of periodontal pockets, gingival recession, tooth mobility, and other signs of dental disease.
The measurements and observations made during this assessment are essential for diagnosing any existing or potential dental issues. For instance, periodontal pockets—spaces between the tooth and surrounding gum—can indicate periodontal disease, which may require further treatment. Gingival recession, where the gum tissue pulls away from the teeth, can expose the roots and lead to sensitivity and other complications. Tooth mobility may signal advanced periodontal disease or a fracture.
Once the dentist has completed the assessment, they will contact you to discuss their findings. If further surgical intervention is indicated, such as extractions or advanced periodontal treatments, the dentist will present you with a detailed report and a recommended treatment plan. We believe in working closely with pet owners to ensure that you are fully informed and involved in any decisions regarding your pet’s care. This collaborative approach allows us to tailor the treatment to your pet’s specific needs and your preferences.
Commitment to Comprehensive Care and Communication
At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, our goal is to provide the most thorough and attentive care possible to our patients. We understand that dental health is an integral part of your pet’s overall well-being, and we strive to ensure that nothing is overlooked during their dental checkup. Our advanced imaging technology, meticulous assessments, and skilled team of professionals allow us to diagnose and treat dental issues with the highest level of precision.
We also recognize the importance of keeping you, the pet owner, informed throughout the entire process. From the moment you drop off your pet to the time you pick them up, we prioritize clear and consistent communication. You can expect to receive updates on your pet’s status, any findings during the procedure, and the proposed treatment plan. Our team is always available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have, ensuring that you feel confident and comfortable with the care your pet is receiving.
Schedule an Appointment Today to Ensure Your Pet’s Health and Happiness
Your pet’s dental checkup is more than just a routine appointment—it’s an essential part of maintaining their health and quality of life. At Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin, we take pride in offering comprehensive and compassionate care to every patient. From the initial drop-off to the final consultation, our team is dedicated to ensuring that your pet’s dental health is in the best possible hands.
By prioritizing detailed examinations, advanced imaging, and thorough communication, we aim to provide an exceptional experience for both you and your pet. When you choose Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin for your pet’s dental care, you can rest assured that their health and happiness are our top priorities. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to partnering with you to keep your pet’s smile healthy and bright for years to come!
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (8/30/2024). Photo by Karsten Winegeart on Unsplash