Dental FAQ

Pet Dentistry FAQ

Answers to Common Questions about Pet Dentistry

Proper oral hygiene and dental care is an important aspect of your pet’s overall health and wellness. However, many people have questions about this specialized area of veterinary practice. At Quakertown Veterinary Clinic, we want to make sure you’re informed so that you can make the best possible decisions about your pet’s health. Here, we’ve compiled answers to common pet dentistry questions. Browse our pet dentistry FAQ or get in touch with us to schedule pet dental services in Quakertown.

Call (215) 515-8810 for small animals or (215) 515-6909 for large animals, or contact us online, to make an appointment for your pet today!

Why does my pet need dental services? What are the benefits?

The mouth is the gateway to the body. Poor oral hygiene may lead to systemic disease and changes on bloodwork due to a constant source of bacteria that the body must work to control daily.

Will my pet be in any kind of pain after his/her dental procedure?

If your pet has extractions during the procedure, he/she will be sent home with pain medication to be taken for three to five days post-operative.

What types of food can my pet eat after the procedure?

Generally, pets can return to their normal diet immediately following a dental cleaning. If extractions are performed, soft food will be recommended for approximately seven days postoperative. Specific instructions will be provided following extensive dental work.

Is anesthesia safe for my pet?

Yes; however, appropriate precautions must be taken in each pet prior to planning anesthesia. These include age-appropriate bloodwork within three months and a complete physical exam. When a dental service requires anesthesia, our team carefully monitors your pet’s heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation level (Spo2), EKG, and temperature during the entire procedure.

How long will my pet be under anesthesia?

The time under anesthesia varies based on the grade level. Grade 1 is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour in length. Grade 4 is approximately 1.5 to 3 hours in length.

Are there any anesthesia repercussions if my pet has a heart issue?

A pet with a heart murmur is still able to have a successful dental procedure! It is recommended that a pet with a heart murmur have a workup with a cardiologist prior to having a dental service. During the dental procedure, a specific anesthetic protocol will be used for pets with a heart murmur.

What if I am unable to brush my pet’s teeth at home?

Ask your veterinarian for prescription diets that aid in dental maintenance, such as Hill’s t/d or Purina DH. Please also visit http://www.VOHC.org for more tips and products that can help with dental maintenance at home.

Is there any age limit to having a dental procedure?

No; it is important, however, that each pet has their annual health/physical exam, as well as necessary bloodwork. Older pets often need a more extensive dental procedure, especially if they have not had yearly dental cleanings and/or dental maintenance beginning at a young age.

Are there any restrictions if my pet is diabetic?

Each pet will have a tailored plan. Your veterinarian will discuss the adjustments of the insulin and food for the morning of the dental.

What is the importance of a whole mouth radiograph?

Radiographs screen for impacted teeth, tooth root abscess, cysts, or dental disease at the root tips that is not always obvious from probing during the exam of the gingival surface.

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