Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleaning
The Veterinary Medical Board now classifies this as a medical procedure that must be done by a veterinarian or under the direct supervision of a veterinarian. Cleaning teeth without anesthesia requires a lot of skill and patience by the practitioner!
Most non-anesthetic cleaning clinics have a group of technicians at different skill levels who are supervised by a veterinarian. However, at Natural Veterinary Therapy the cleaning is done by a veterinarian only.
Our technique is a safe way to have your pets teeth cleaned without the risks of anesthesia. A thorough cleaning is done on each tooth and under the gum line (subgingival) as this is where a large amount of the plaque and beginnings of infection can be. The instruments are similar to those used in human dentistry; a hand scaler, and then polished with a pumice toothpaste. Throughout the process the mouth is cleansed with an antiseptic clove oil solution and great care is taken to ensure the pet doesn't swallow or inhale any of the fluids.
We allow plenty of time for the cleanings so the animals feel more relaxed. lf an animal feels restless, they can take a little break and walk around the room or drink water.
This technique is ideal for young animals who can be started on a regular yearly schedule for cleaning and prevent severe dental disease later in life. It is also ideal for animals who may have a hard time with anesthesia due to, for example, a heart murmur, liver or kidney disease.
Non-anesthetic Dentals for Cats and Dogs performed by a veterinarian
Before After
The following disorders may cause animals to be at higher risk with anesthesia:
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heart or lung disease
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liver disease
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kidney deficiency
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previous adverse reactions to anesthesia
The cleanings are done by Dr. Annette Richmond
and take between 30-60 minutes.
Please call for prices.
And, yes, all these animals in the photographs are wide awake!