Does my pet really need a dental cleaning?

Rest assured that we will only recommend a dental cleaning if your pet truly needs it. The teeth are always examined as part of your pet’s yearly wellness exam. We will show you the degree of tartar buildup and discuss the problems associated with periodontal disease.  If your pet’s tartar buildup is mild, we may, for example, recommend a dental cleaning in 4-6 months.

  Isn’t my pet too old to be anesthetized?

We routinely anesthetize geriatric pets. Keep in mind that old age alone is not a disease.  We will take your pet’s overall health status into account before making any recommendation involving anesthesia.  We highly recommend a preanesthetic blood profile for geriatric pets to check for proper organ function prior to anesthesia. On occasion, some pets cannot be safely anesthetized, and we may recommend alternative options for dental care.

  How much does a dental cleaning cost?

We will provide you an estimate upon request.  The fee can vary depending on the degree of tartar buildup and whether extractions or other therapy or medications are required.

  How often will my pet need a cleaning?

That can depend on a number of factors including breed, diet, and level of home care you provide.  In general, small dog breeds require dental cleanings more often than larger breeds. Small breeds often require cleanings every 1-2 years. Larger breeds may do fine with cleanings only every 2-4 years. Cats usually need cleanings every 1-3 years.

For more pet dental information, visit www.petdental.com.