Your dog’s dental health plays a crucial role in their overall well-being, yet many pet owners overlook this essential aspect of care until problems arise. Poor dental hygiene can lead to painful infections, tooth loss, and even serious health complications affecting your dog’s heart, liver, and kidneys.
At Montclair Veterinary Associates, we understand the importance of maintaining your dog’s oral health through professional dental cleanings and preventive care. Dr. Cory Waxman and our experienced team provide comprehensive dental services to keep your furry family member healthy and comfortable throughout their life.
What to Expect During Your Dog’s Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings require general anesthesia to ensure your dog’s safety and comfort while allowing us to perform a thorough cleaning. Before any procedure, we conduct a complete physical examination and may recommend pre-anesthetic blood work to ensure your dog can safely undergo anesthesia.
Our team monitors your dog’s vital signs throughout the procedure using advanced equipment to ensure their safety. The cleaning process typically includes dental X-rays to evaluate the tooth roots and bone structure below the gum line, areas that cannot be assessed during a visual examination.
Pre-Cleaning Preparation
We recommend fasting your dog for 12 hours before their dental procedure, though water should remain available until the morning of the appointment. This preparation helps reduce the risk of complications during anesthesia.
Our team will discuss any medications your dog currently takes, as some may need to be temporarily discontinued before the procedure. We’ll provide specific pre-operative instructions tailored to your dog’s individual needs and health status.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most dogs recover quickly from dental cleanings and can return home the same day. We provide detailed aftercare instructions, including pain management if extractions were necessary, and recommendations for maintaining your dog’s oral health at home.
Signs Your Dog May Need Professional Dental Cleaning
Several warning signs indicate your dog may benefit from professional dental cleaning. Bad breath that worsens over time often signals bacterial buildup and early dental disease. Yellow or brown tartar deposits along the gum line, especially on the back teeth, suggest the need for professional intervention.
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums indicate inflammation that requires immediate attention. If your dog shows reluctance to eat hard foods, drops food while eating, or paws at its mouth, these behaviors may signal dental pain that requires professional evaluation.
Changes in eating habits, excessive drooling, or facial swelling can all indicate serious dental problems that need prompt veterinary care. Early intervention prevents more extensive and expensive treatments later.
Maintaining Your Dog’s Dental Health Between Cleanings
Home dental care plays a vital role in maintaining your dog’s oral health between professional cleanings. Daily brushing with dog-specific toothpaste helps remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Start slowly with finger brushing or gauze, gradually introducing a dog toothbrush as your pet becomes comfortable with the process.
Dental chews and toys designed for oral health can help reduce plaque buildup while providing mental stimulation for your dog. Choose products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Diet also affects dental health. Dry kibble typically provides more abrasive action than wet food, though quality nutrition matters more than texture alone. Avoid giving your dog real bones, ice cubes, or extremely hard toys that can cause tooth fractures.
Schedule Your Dog’s Dental Cleaning Today
Professional dental care is an investment in your dog’s long-term health and overall well-being. Regular cleanings prevent painful dental disease and the serious health complications that can result from untreated oral infections.
Dr. Cory Waxman has extensive experience in veterinary dentistry and utilizes the latest techniques and equipment to ensure safe and effective dental care for dogs of all ages and breeds. Our Montclair facility features state-of-the-art dental equipment and monitoring systems to provide the highest standard of care for your beloved companion. To schedule your dog’s dental examination and cleaning, please call us at (973) 313-5652 or contact us online to discuss your pet’s dental health needs.
