Yes, pain prevention and control are crucial during dental procedures. At Blue Oasis Pet Hospital, all dental patients receive pre-anesthetic pain relievers. If extractions are required, local nerve blocks are administered before the procedure, and anti-inflammatory medications are given during anesthesia. Post-operative pain medications are also prescribed based on the procedure performed.

A dental cleaning appointment for a dog with stage one periodontal disease (tartar and gingivitis) typically takes about an hour. The time required for the procedure can increase depending on the severity of the dental issues discovered during the exam.

Yes, dental x-rays are a critical part of a dog's dental assessment, as they allow the veterinarian to examine areas of the tooth that are not visible to the naked eye. Dental x-rays are mandatory at Blue Oasis Pet Hospital during dental exams.

Preparation for a dental exam might include providing calming medications, antibiotics, or pain medications as recommended by your veterinarian. You should also have soft or canned food available for your dog after the procedure. It is essential to follow your veterinarian's specific instructions, as each office's requirements might vary.

Dogs often hide their dental pain, making it difficult to determine if they are experiencing discomfort. Some signs of dental pain might include lethargy, hiding in unusual places, dropping food from their mouth, or favoring one side when chewing. However, dogs rarely cry out in pain, even if they have a fractured tooth or are biting down on something.

Your dog should have a dental exam at least once a year, as part of their annual checkup.

Determining if your dog needs a dental exam can be difficult, as dogs are usually quiet about their dental needs. Bad breath or chewing issues might be the only noticeable signs. Most of the time, veterinarians discover oral health problems during your dog's general checkup or preventive care exam.

No, there are no chew toys on the market that can effectively brush your dog's teeth. While some may be marketed as such, the mechanical action of chewing does not provide the same brushing technique as using a toothbrush. For a comprehensive list of recommended dental care products, visit the Veterinary Oral Health Council's website at vohc.org.

Yes, dogs can get cavities, but they are incredibly rare. Dogs do not consume a lot of sugar and are not prone to cavities like humans. Veterinary dentists do not fill cavities in the same way human dentists do. While cavities can occur in dogs, they are a rare occurrence.

Yes, brushing your dog's teeth is still important even if you give them greenies or dental health chews. While these chews can help maintain dental health, nothing can replace the effectiveness of brushing your dog's teeth. Regular brushing and dental chews can help minimize the need for professional dental cleanings, but it is still essential to visit your veterinary dentist for periodic cleanings.