Dentistry
Dental Services:
Dental cleaning is done through the surgical service at Hyannis Animal Hospital. During your pet's wellness exam the veterinarian may make a recommendation to have a dental cleaning done. Because veterinary dental procedures are generally more involved than human ones, anesthesia is required to keep the pet still and free of stress. The anesthesia protocol will be determined based on your pet's age and overall condition. Pre anesthetic bloodwork is usually done to make this as safe as possible. Once under anesthesia the veterinarian will reevaluate the condition of the gums and tooth roots. Dental radiographs are sometimes taken to further evaluate trouble spots below the gum line. The teeth are cleaned using an ultrasonic scaler, then polished to a smooth finish. After this the gumline and teeth are flushed with an antibacterial rinse designed to slow the regrowth of bacteria.
Dental care should not be limited to what is done in the hospital. Regular brushing or using a rinse with your pet will reduce the recurrence of tartar and plaque build up.
