Basic cleanings, extractions, and minor gingival surgical repairs are available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. A pre-anesthetic examination on a clinic day (Wednesdays and Fridays) is preferred so that an estimate can be provided and antibiotics started if deemed necessary. Exam fees start at $45. 

Recommended meds are additional.

Pets with minimal tartar- cooperative pets may allow hand scaling without anesthesia. Applying a tartar-softening dental gel (see below) prior to the cleaning may be suggested.

Pets with major tartar- these pets need general anesthesia (meaning they are completely asleep) to allow a thorough scraping of all tartar on visible surfaces of the teeth PLUS under the gum line. All teeth will be closely examined for any signs of enamel erosion or root decay. Following the cleaning, all teeth are polished and a fluoride gel is applied. Fees for a cleaning, including anesthesia, start at $236.

Extractions- routine extractions may be performed and the resulting root socket closed if possible. Estimates for the extraction and necessary gum repair will be provided.

Tartar Control Products and Recommendations

Food - generally dry (kibble) or raw are best. (Raw foods need to be fed with caution due to possible bacteria contamination). Some food companies design the dry food nuggets to scrape the tooth rather than crumble easily.

• Grocery store - IAMS, Friskies Dental

• Pet Store - many to choose from including Science Diet Oral Care, Royal Canin, Solid Gold, California Natural, Wellness, Blue, etc.

• Veterinary Clinics - Science Diet Oral Care or T/D (Tartar Diet)

• Your refrigerator - any raw veggies and fruit except grapes, raisins, and onions

 Tartar Control Gel- available at Pet Partners

We recommend OraZn gel or MaxiGard gel because they do not contain a disinfectant called chlorhexidine which is commonly found in many dental products. Chlorhexidine is fine to use for short periods (1-2 weeks) after a cleaning but not long-term.

OraZn - for pets with minimal or no tartar. Apply one drop to both sides of the upper  gums 3-7 x per week. Cost is $14

MaxiGard - same as OraZn but also contains vitamin C and therefore must be refrigerated. Ideal for pets with major tartar or gingivitis or are unable to have a cleaning performed under anesthesia.  Cost is $18.

Teeth Brushing and toothpaste- Only recommended if your pet does not have painful gums or any decayed teeth. Any wiping or brushing could cause additional pain and your pet may resist any future cleaning even after extractions because they associate wiping and brushing with pain. Wiping the teeth with a dry paper towel is helpful after meals to remove food residue. Using a fingerbrush or toothbrush is even better.

Toothpastes should be made for pets only since they cannot digest human toothpaste.