Dental Cleanings

After the patient has been evaluated and the history assessed, pre-anesthetic medications are individually calculated and tailored for each individual. Around 1/2 hour after the pre-anesthetic medications are administered, an IV catheter is placed, and fluids are administered as anesthesia is induced. IV fluids greatly improve the safety of anesthesia, helping to maintain blood pressure, kidney function, and prevent post-operative dehydration. In addition, if there were a problem, the IV line allows for rapid treatment. All patients anesthetized at Santa Cruz Animal Clinic receive IV fluids.

As soon as anesthesia is induced, a breathing tube is placed and the patient is started on gas to maintain the anesthesia. Monitoring equipment, including pulse oximetry (oxygenation monitor) and blood pressure are then placed on the patient, the eyes are lubricated to prevent damage, and a warming water blanket is placed. Anesthetic monitoring is constant during the procedure. We are always within a few feet of every anesthetized patient. The patients face and eyes are always covered with a towel to prevent contamination, and gauze is placed in the back of the mouth to catch debris and water. All patients lay on and are covered by their personal clean towels.

Before and during the dental, Digital Dental X-rays are taken to help determine any issues under the gums, and to check for cavities and any other issues that may need to be addressed. After the teeth are thoroughly cleaned, rinsed, polished, and treated with fluoride, we examine every part of the patients mouth and any abnormalities are noted on the dental chart. Any recommended treatment is explained to the owner, along with the costs for that treatment. In most cases, any required treatment can be performed at the same time as the cleaning.

All patients are closely monitored as they wake up, with most patients standing up within a few minutes of completing the procedure. Pain management includes medications before, during, and after the procedure as needed.

At discharge, all instructions are written out and fully explained. Most patients are scheduled for a re-check exam as appropriate. At some point in your pet's care, we also take the time to demonstrate your home care options on your own pet. At any time before or after your pet's care you are welcome to call or E-mail any questions you might have.

Finally, we will advise you of when your pet should be checked again, and of any required follow-up. We will then call to remind you when any further care might be required.