Dental health is one of the most overlooked aspects of pet wellness. By the age of three, the majority of dogs and cats show signs of dental disease, which can lead to bad breath, pain, tooth loss, and even impact important organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
At Cascade Heights Veterinary Center, we’re committed to helping pets maintain healthy mouths and healthy lives. That’s why we partner with Animal Dental Care to provide professional non-anesthetic dental cleanings right here in our veterinary hospital.
What Is a Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleaning?
A non-anesthetic dental cleaning is a procedure performed while a pet is awake, allowing trained dental professionals to remove plaque and tartar from visible tooth surfaces without the use of general anesthesia.
These cleanings can be an excellent option for pets with mild tartar buildup, owners seeking routine maintenance between anesthetic dental procedures, or pets that may not currently be candidates for anesthesia.
It’s important to understand that non-anesthetic dental cleanings are not a replacement for a comprehensive veterinary dental procedure when significant dental disease is present. However, they can be a valuable part of an overall dental care plan when performed appropriately and under veterinary supervision.
Why Location Matters: Veterinary Clinic vs. Groomer or Pet Store
Not all non-anesthetic dental cleanings are created equal.
Many pet owners are surprised to learn that some dental cleaning services are offered in grooming salons, pet food stores, or other non-medical settings. While convenient, these locations often lack the medical oversight and support available in a veterinary hospital.
When your pet receives a non-anesthetic dental cleaning at Cascade Heights Veterinary Center, they benefit from:
Veterinary Oversight
Our veterinary team is on-site and familiar with your pet’s medical history. If concerns arise during the cleaning, trained veterinary professionals are immediately available to assess the situation.
Proper Patient Screening
Not every pet is a good candidate for a non-anesthetic dental cleaning. Prior to the procedure, pets can be evaluated to ensure the service is appropriate and safe for their individual needs.
Recognition of Dental Disease
A veterinary setting allows for better identification of issues such as fractured teeth, gingivitis, oral masses, loose teeth, or advanced periodontal disease that may require a full anesthetic dental procedure.
Immediate Access to Medical Care
Although complications are uncommon, having a veterinary team and medical equipment available provides an additional level of safety and peace of mind that simply isn’t available in most retail or grooming environments.
Continuity of Care
Because the cleaning takes place within your pet’s veterinary home, findings can be incorporated into their overall health record and future treatment recommendations.
Our Partnership with Animal Dental Care
To provide the highest quality non-anesthetic dental services, Cascade Heights Veterinary Center partners with Animal Dental Care, a company specializing in professional awake dental cleanings for pets.
Animal Dental Care’s experienced team visits our clinic and performs cleanings in a calm, controlled environment while working alongside our veterinary staff. This partnership allows pet owners to access specialized dental maintenance services without sacrificing the benefits of veterinary supervision.
Together, we strive to make dental care more accessible while ensuring pets receive professional attention in a medical setting.
Is Your Pet a Candidate?
Non-anesthetic dental cleanings may be appropriate for pets with:
- Mild to moderate tartar accumulation
- Cooperative temperaments
- A need for routine dental maintenance
- Minimal signs of advanced periodontal disease
Pets with significant dental disease, painful oral conditions, or extensive tartar below the gumline may require a comprehensive anesthetic dental procedure instead.
Our team can help determine which option is best for your pet.
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning
Good dental health contributes to a longer, happier life for your pet. If you’re interested in learning more about our non-anesthetic dental cleaning services with Animal Dental Care, contact Cascade Heights Veterinary Center today.
We’re proud to offer professional dental care in a veterinary setting where your pet’s comfort, health, and safety always come first.