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Dental Cleaning
After the patient has been evaluated and the history assessed, pre-anesthetic medications are individually calculated and tailored for each individual. Preanesthesia labwork is performed if not already completed. An IV catheter is placed, and fluids are administered as anesthesia is induced. IV fluids greatly improve the safety of anesthesia, helping to maintain blood pressure, kidney function, and prevent post-operative dehydration. In addition, if there were a problem, the IV line allows for rapid treatment. All patients anesthetized at Cross Creek Animal Medical Centre receive IV fluids.
As soon as anesthesia is induced, a breathing tube is placed and the patient is started on gas to maintain the anesthesia. Monitoring equipment, including pulse oximetry (oxygenation monitor) and blood pressure are then placed on the patient, the eyes are lubricated to prevent damage, and the pet is placed on a heated dental table. Anesthetic monitoring is constant during the procedure. We are always within a few feet of every anesthetized patient. The patient's face and eyes are always covered with a towel to prevent contamination, if needed. The endotracheal tube has cuff to catch debris and water. All patients lay on and are covered by their personal clean towels.
After the teeth are thoroughly cleaned, rinsed, polished, and treated with Oravet Dental Sealant, we examine every part of the patient's mouth and any abnormalities are noted on the dental chart. Any recommended treatment is explained to the owner, along with the costs for that treatment. In most cases, any required treatment can be performed at the same time as the cleaning. It is very important for owner's to be available while there pet is under anesthesia so that any additional care can be discussed at completed with one anesthetic event.
All patients are closely monitored as they wake up, with most patients standing up within a few minutes of completing the procedure. Pain management includes medications before, during, and after the procedure, as well as local nerve blocks as indicated.
At discharge, all instructions are written out and fully explained. Typically several pictures of your pet's procedure are taken and printed out for your reference. Most patients are scheduled for a re-check exam as appropriate. There is no charge for these re-check exams. At some point in your pet's care, we also take the time to demonstrate your home care options on your own pet. At any time before or after your pet's care you are welcome to call or E-mail any questions you might have.
Finally, we will advise you of when your pet should be checked again, and of any required follow-up. We will then call to remind you when any further care might be required.
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