THE TRUTH ABOUT CANINE DENTAL ANESTHESIA
There are two ways your vet can clean your dog’s teeth, with dental anesthesia and without dental anesthesia. What is best for your dog?
The Importance of Veterinary Dental Care
Keeping your dog’s teeth clean is a number one health priority for dog parents. Why? Because the bacteria in the mouth cause plaque to form and develops into Periodontal disease. This happens when the bacteria begin to spread under the gum line. This, in turn, causes damage to the tissue supporting the teeth resulting in tooth loss.
Bacteria releases toxins that stimulate the immune system and cause a whole host of health risks, including poor control of diabetes, and heart disease.
Periodontal disease is completely preventable. But, it takes more than daily brushing — honestly, how many people actually brush their dog’s teeth daily anyway? If you do, then hats off to you! I, like most people, know how important it is, and I try, but it never happens every day. I have three, you know. (SEE: “How to Brush Your Chihhaha’s Teeth The Smart Way”
Anesthesia-Free Veterinary Dental Care
All the reasons above are why it is so important to have your dog’s teeth cleaned regularly by your veterinarian. You might have heard about anesthesia-free dental cleanings from a groomer, a pet store, or from a friend.
Oxyfresh Dental Kit
Comes with one Water Additive to help freshen breath and fight plaque and tartar, one Dental Gel to promote clean teeth and freshen breath, and three-finger toothbrushes for a gentle, yet efficient clean. Both the Water Additive and Dental Gel are 100% non-toxic and formulated with Oxygene, Oxyfresh’s exclusive odor eliminator that helps combat bad bacteria that can lead to stinky breath.
It has become a trend to keep your pets drug-free, to only go natural whenever possible. Anesthesia-free dental cleanings may sound like the natural way to go. But, is it the humane way to go?
Imagine the stress and trauma a dog would have to endure. The poking, prodding, bright lights, and sharp tools, all while being restrained he would have to endure. Just imagine the look of betrayal you will get when he comes home!
The 2013 AAHA Dental Care Guidelines For Dogs and Cats states “cleaning a companion animal’s teeth without general anesthesia is considered unacceptable and below the standard of care.” What that means is that it is considered to be cruel.
Our Dogs Trust and Rely on Us
It is up to you and me as dog parents and guardians to provide for their needs. Dental cleaning under anesthesia allows your dog to rest comfortably during the procedure. It also eliminates the risk of injury to himself or others.
Your veterinarian can also properly evaluate your dog’s teeth while under anesthesia. They can fully examine each tooth and take dental x-rays, all while your dog is resting comfortably.
What To Expect
Before your dog gets a dental cleaning, your veterinarian will examine your dog and perform a blood test. This will ensure that there are no health issues that should be dealt with first. He then will create a plan and anesthesia protocol that is customized for your dog.
Recovery
Most dogs recover from anesthesia quickly. Many are fully awake and standing just 15 to 20 minutes after the procedure. It is done as an outpatient procedure, so your dog can go home the very same day. Depending on what was done during the cleaning, there may be some pain afterward. Your vet may prescribe a temporary pain medication to keep your dog comfortable the rest of the day.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is much safer and much more comfortable for your dog to have anesthesia during a dental cleaning. Dental cleaning by your veterinarian should be done every six months, once a year at the very least.
Did you know that it is a myth that kibble or dry dog food will help keep your dog’s teeth clean? Keep them healthy with fresh food. Now get 50% off your first order of fresh dog food formulated by a veterinarian nutritionist delivered right to your door! Easy to cancel anytime.
Another tip: Let your dog chew on a carrot. It’s good for them and will help scrape tartar off their teeth.
