Healthy Teeth and Gums = Healthy Pets

The overall health and longevity of your pet is directly related to the health of your pet's teeth and gums. At Berkeley Veterinary Center, we do a thorough checkup of your pet's teeth and gums every time they visit us. By the age of three years, most need a professional cleaning. Our veterinarians are experts in dental care.

For professional dental cleanings, we will put your pet under anesthesia so that we can do a deep and thorough job. Any pet going under anesthesia at our veterinary center is treated with the utmost care. We use multi-modal anesthesia, which means we use a variety of drugs, but less of each so that it's safer for your pet. Pets are fully monitored at all times, and our priority is always your pet's safety and comfort throughout the cleaning.

While a professional cleaning may seem like a big event for a younger cat or dog, early care and cleaning significantly reduces more serious health concerns later in your pet's life. Visit our educational blogs on dental care and dental health for more information.

What Happens when You Leave Your Pet at Berkeley Veterinary Center for a Dental Procedure?

1. General anesthesia—In order for us to provide the best care for your pet, full anesthesia is required.
2. Oral exam and charting—The mouth and each tooth are extensively examined. Dental radiographs (X-rays) are often taken to identify problems with teeth that may appear normal on the surface. Periodontal examination helps identify disease.
3. Extractions or surgical treatments—Any diseased teeth or tissues identified during the examination and X-ray process will be addressed. This may involve removing teeth that cannot be saved or are causing your pet discomfort.
4. Scaling—Plaque and tartar are removed from above and below the gum line.
5. Polishing—Scaling the teeth creates a slightly rough surface where plaque and calculus can accumulate. Polishing smoothes the tooth surface in order to make the effects of your pet's dental cleaning last longer.