Why Anesthesia Is Used for Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings require scaling below the gumline and thorough evaluation of each tooth. Pets cannot hold still for this level of care, and attempting a cleaning without anesthesia would be stressful and incomplete. Anesthesia allows the veterinarian to work safely and effectively while your pet remains comfortable.
Every pet is different, and anesthesia is generally safe for healthy pets when proper protocols are followed. We tailor our approach based on your pet's age, breed, and health status.
How We Reduce Risk
We screen every pet before anesthesia with a physical exam and may recommend bloodwork to check organ function. This helps us identify any concerns and choose the most appropriate anesthetic protocol for your pet.
During the procedure, we monitor heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. A trained team member stays with your pet throughout the dental cleaning and recovery. If you have concerns about your pet's health, we encourage you to discuss them with us before scheduling.
Questions to Ask Before Scheduling
It's important to feel informed before your pet has a dental cleaning. Consider asking your veterinarian about pre-anesthetic screening, the type of anesthesia used, and what monitoring is in place during the procedure.
You may also want to ask about recovery expectations and any special care your pet might need at home afterward. Our team is happy to answer your questions and help you make the best decision for your pet.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't my pet have a dental cleaning without anesthesia?
Dental cleanings require scaling below the gumline and a thorough exam of each tooth. Pets cannot hold still for this, and an awake cleaning would be stressful and incomplete. Anesthesia allows us to provide the level of care your pet needs while keeping them comfortable.
What screening is done before anesthesia?
We perform a physical exam and may recommend bloodwork to check organ function before anesthesia. This helps us choose the right protocol for your pet and identify any concerns that need to be addressed.
Is my senior pet a candidate for dental cleanings?
Age alone does not rule out dental care. We evaluate each pet individually based on their overall health. Many senior pets tolerate anesthesia well when we use appropriate protocols and monitoring. Your veterinarian can discuss your pet's specific situation with you.