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Hi, I’m Dr. Anderson, and today I’ll walk you through how we perform a dental cleaning on my dog, Jenna.
We begin with dental X-rays, as shown here. Multiple images are taken so we can carefully evaluate each tooth root. This allows us to confirm that the roots are healthy, check for any signs of periodontal disease, and identify issues within the tooth that may not be visible externally. These findings help us determine whether a tooth needs to be extracted or if other treatments are required to restore proper dental health.
Next, we move on to cleaning Jenna’s teeth using an ultrasonic scaler—the same type of instrument used in human dentistry. This tool effectively removes tartar buildup from the tooth surfaces. It also enables us to clean below the gum line, which isn’t possible when a dog is awake. Since most tartar and bacteria accumulate beneath the gums, this step is essential for a thorough cleaning.
After scaling, we use a periodontal probe to examine each tooth both in the front and back, checking below the gum line. This helps us detect any pocketing, which can indicate disease. Ideally, the probe should not go deeper than the first two markings. Greater depth suggests the tooth may need to be removed.
Finally, we polish the teeth. Polishing smooths out any tiny scratches created during the cleaning process, helping to prevent future plaque buildup. It also enhances the longevity of the cleaning and leaves the teeth looking bright, smooth, and clean.
This is how Jenna’s teeth look after the procedure. To maintain these results, I’ll continue brushing her teeth at home. Feel free to contact us to schedule your pet’s dental cleaning.