5371 Merchants View Square, Haymarket, VA 20169
Keeping Your Pet’s Smile Healthy and Clean
Have you noticed that your pet’s breath smells unpleasant, or have you seen some discoloration or buildup on their teeth? Was a dental cleaning recommended at your pet’s regular checkup? We understand that you may find this concerning, but just like humans, dental health is an important part of your pet’s overall health, so a professional cleaning may be recommended. Our team has vast experience in caring for the dental needs of our patients, so you can be confident that at Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, your fur-baby is in good hands when it’s time for a teeth cleaning.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, call us at (703) 753-4444.
What is a Pet Dental Cleaning?
During your dog or cat’s dental cleaning (sometimes called a prophylaxis), plaque and tartar are removed from a pet’s teeth, and the health of the entire mouth (tongue, gums, lips, and teeth) is assessed. A thorough dental cleaning can be accomplished only while the pet is under general anesthesia. Anesthesia keeps your pet free of pain during the dental procedure and allows us to fully inspect the teeth and remove tartar from under the gums. During anesthesia, a soft plastic tube is inserted into the trachea (the main airway in the throat) to support the patient’s breathing. Placement of the tracheal tube also prevents inhalation of bacteria that are aerosolized during the dental cleaning.
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What Our Cleanings May Include:
- Removing Visible Plaque and Tartar From the Teeth
- Eliminating Plaque and Tartar From Under the Gum
- Probing Dental Sockets to Assess Dental Disease
- Polishing Teeth to Smooth Enamel Scratches That May Attract Bacteria
- Performing Dental Radiographs (X-rays) to Evaluate Problems Below the Gumline
- Applying Fluoride or Dental Sealer
- Monitoring Dental Disease Progression by Performing Dental Charting
- Inspecting the Lips, Tongue, and Entire Mouth for Growths, Wounds, or Other Problems
How Do I Know If My Pet Needs a Dental Cleaning?
Regular inspection of your pet’s mouth is important to catch dental disease in the early stages. Tartar may appear as a brownish-gold buildup on the teeth, close to the gum-line. Redness or bleeding along the gum line may indicate gingivitis.
What Are the Benefits of a Dental Cleaning?
A professional dog or cat dental cleaning removes not only the visible plaque and tartar on the teeth surfaces but also the bacteria under the gums. This eliminates potential sources of infection to the mouth and other organs and protects your pet from pain and tooth loss.