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DENTAL EXAM
Annual dental exams are extremely important for your pet's health. Some signs that your pet may have a dental problem can include bad breath, trouble chewing or not eating, and visible evidence of plaque, tartar or inflamed gums. Oral problems can lead to serious health concerns if left untreated.
DENTAL PROCEDURE
Following the dental exam, your veterinarian may recommend that your pet be anesthetized to perform a thorough dental cleaning and treat any problems that may not have been detected during the exam. The complexities of the dental procedures vary on the condition of the patients teeth. Your veterinarian will discuss with you in detail what needs to be done during your pet's dentistry. 
Before
After
Listed below are services that are standard in every dental procedure performed at Wheat Ridge Animal Hospital.
- The safest general anesthetic available is used throughout the dental procedure.
- EKG, blood pressure, and respiration are monitored throughout the anesthesia.
- Digital X-rays are taken of the entire mouth before the dental cleaning begins. They provide a more in-depth look under the gum line and can show cavities and infected tooth roots that may otherwise be missed.
- If diseased teeth need to be removed, pain medication is administered before, during and after the procedure to assist in your pet's recovery.
- An antibiotic is administered to prevent the spread of infection from the mouth to other parts of the body.
- Individualized sterilized instrument packs are used for each dental procedure.
- Ultrasonic scaling and fluoride polishing to clean the teeth.
- Fluids are administered through an intravenous catheter to maintain blood pressure.
- Dental records are maintained for accuracy and for follow-up visits.
- To help your pet maintain good oral health our veterinarians recommend that dogs and cats have a full dental procedure at least every other year once they are four years old. This is a safe procedure and can help future health problems and allow early detection.
- Regular dental procedures throughout your pet's life can help to prevent lost teeth and gum disease, two major oral problems in most older dogs and cats. Prevention is the key to keeping your pet living a long, healthy life with your family.
To schedule your pet's dental exam, call us at 303-424-3325, or click the pet portal link to the left to schedule through your Pet Portal.
Don't have a Pet Portal? Sign up by clicking on the Pet Portal link to the left to get online access to your pet's health information. Use your Pet Portal to schedule appointments, order prescription refills, set up medication reminders and communicate with us. Your Pet Portal is provided to you free of charge.
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