February is National Dental Health Month

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February is National Dental Health Month! Your pet’s oral health is linked to their overall health.   During your pet’s annual physical exam, an minimal oral exam is usually performed that allows the doctor to determine the need for a more extensive Oral Assessment and Treatment Plan (ATP).

The Oral ATP is more than just looking at the teeth. It involves looking at the tooth face for any asymmetry, swelling, discharge, or masses. We look at tartar on the teeth, tooth alignment,  tooth color, and for the presence of extra teeth or if any teeth are missing, chipped or cracked.  We look at the gums, inside of the cheeks, and check the palate for color, swelling,  gum recession, and sensitivity. We also check for odor. Although many pets tolerate the minimal oral exam while they are awake, anesthesia is always necessary to safely perform thorough Oral ATP.

Prior to anesthesia, a compressive physical exam, a blood test and an ecg are performed to help us decide the best course of anesthesia.  An IV is placed through which fluids are administered before, during and after the procedure to ensure your pet is stable.  A patient monitor, similar to those used in a human hospital, is used to monitor the vital signs. After the oral assessment, the tartar is removed ultrasonically with our state-of-the-art scaler which does not damage the tooth enamel. Next, the teeth are polished with a polisher similar to that used by your own dentist. Finally, fluoride is applied to help strengthen teeth and prevent future tartar buildup.


Loose, broken or infected teeth may need removal. Oral radiographs are often helpful in determining the status of a tooth, because more than half of a tooth can be beneath the gum line. We can perform simple and surgical extractions here are Maple Knoll, when needed.  Pain relief and antibiotics are administered by injection and some are also sent home for your pet's safety and comfort.

Follow up home care is recommended to keep your pet’s mouth healthy.  Dogs and cats need tooth brushing daily and most need an Oral ATP once or twice per year starting at age six or seven, some even earlier. For the entire month of February, in honor of National Dental Health Month, Maple Knoll Veterinary Clinic is giving away a free gift to all patients who have Oral ATPs performed. Call today to schedule your pet's appointment!