This two-part series takes a closer look at veterinary dentistry and what actually happens when your pet comes in for a “dental.” In Part 1, we’ll walk through the admission process, pre-anesthetic preparation, and what takes place during the procedure itself.
What Is Involved in a Veterinary Dental?
Dentistry in dogs and cats is more involved than many people realize and requires specialized training for both the veterinary technician and veterinarian.
Adult dogs have 42 teeth, while cats have 30 teeth. Each tooth has roots—some with one, two, or even three—that anchor them firmly in the jaw. Because pets won’t sit still for a thorough dental exam and treatment, the procedure must be performed under general anesthesia to ensure their safety and comfort.
Before the Procedure
When your pet is admitted, a team member will review their individualized treatment plan and go over the authorization form with you. A pre-anesthetic exam is performed, and in some cases, bloodwork is recommended to ensure it’s safe to proceed. Based on these results, the veterinarian selects the most appropriate sedation and anesthetic protocol.
An intravenous (IV) catheter is placed to deliver fluids and medications, and your pet is gently sedated.
During the Procedure
Once asleep, your pet is intubated and maintained on a gas anesthetic. Throughout the procedure, vital signs—such as heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature—are closely monitored.
A veterinary technician begins by examining the mouth and charting any abnormalities, including tartar buildup, gingivitis, or missing teeth. The teeth are then cleaned to allow for a more detailed assessment.
Full-mouth dental X-rays are taken to evaluate each tooth and its roots. Since many dental issues occur below the gumline, these X-rays are essential in determining whether a tooth is healthy or needs to be extracted. It doesn't stop here - Part 2 coming next month.