We will be closed
Thursday June 20th, 2024
between 12:30pm-2:00pm
for an all staff meeting
If your pet is having an emergency, please visit your local ER Clinic.
503-682-3737
Dentistry
Dentistry is an important part of preventative care in our patients. Working closely with our staff to understand our recommendations and establish a plan is the best place to begin. Our veterinarians and licensed technicians will work closely with your pet to ensure the best anesthetic and medical plan is developed. We have state of the art digital radiography to diagnose and identify dental disease and bone loss and ultrasonic scaling units to remove calculus and staining safely, without damaging the enamel, both above and below the gumline.
Dental disease is the most common health problem diagnosed in pets. Studies show that 80-85% of dogs and cats have dental disease by 3 years of age. To maintain healthy gums and teeth we recommend the first professional cleaning by age 2 for small breed dogs and cats and age 3 for large breeds. Studies show that dental disease can be related to diseases affecting other parts of the body such as the kidneys, heart and liver. Our veterinary team performs an oral evaluation as part of our annual exam and will make dental recommendations at that time. A complete oral exam is not possible in an awake pet because greater than 50% of the tooth lies under the gum and in the bone.
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On the day of your pet’s procedure, an IV catheter will be placed to deliver anesthetics and fluids safely. Your pet will be with us most of the day. Our team will remain in close communication with you throughout the day with updates on your pet’s progress and recovery. During all phases of the treatment and recovery process, our licensed technical team will monitor your pet, paying close attention to body temperature, heart rate and rhythm, respiration and blood pressure.
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Our certified technicians will thoroughly examine the mouth with a dental probe and chart any problem areas that need to be addressed. At this time your veterinarian will develop a plan for further diagnostics and treatment if deemed necessary.
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We clean the teeth with an ultrasonic scaler that allows us to access below the gum line as well as the crown of the tooth. The veterinarian will perform any additional therapy, extractions, root planning, or oral surgery needed at this time. After the scaling is completed, we will polish the teeth to make them smooth and ready for you to take over with our home care recommendations for brushing, rinsing and chew toys.
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Once the procedure is completed your pet will be transferred to recovery. A licensed technician will be with them during this time continuing to monitor vitals and provide supportive care for a smooth recovery