At Nordahl Pet Clinic, we believe dental health is a vital part of your pet’s overall well-being. Professional dental cleanings performed under anesthesia allow us to thoroughly clean, examine, and protect your pet’s teeth and gums—something that simply isn’t possible while your pet is awake.
Why Dental Cleanings Are Important
Just like humans, pets develop plaque and tartar buildup over time. Without proper care, this can lead to:
- Gum disease (periodontal disease)
- Tooth decay and loss
- Pain and difficulty eating
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Infections that can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys
Routine dental cleanings help prevent these issues and keep your pet healthy and comfortable.
Why Anesthesia Is Necessary
Dental cleanings for pets must be performed under anesthesia to ensure:
- Safety and comfort – Your pet remains still and pain-free throughout the procedure
- Thorough cleaning – We can clean below the gumline where disease often begins
- Accurate evaluation – Allows full examination of each tooth and surrounding tissue
- Dental X-rays (if needed) – To detect hidden problems beneath the surface
Our team carefully monitors your pet before, during, and after anesthesia to ensure a safe experience.
What to Expect During the Procedure
When your pet undergoes a dental cleaning at Nordahl Pet Clinic, we follow a comprehensive process:
- Pre-Anesthetic Evaluation
We perform a physical exam and may recommend bloodwork to ensure your pet is healthy for anesthesia. - Anesthesia & Monitoring
Your pet is placed under anesthesia and continuously monitored by our trained staff. - Professional Cleaning
- Removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Polishing to smooth the tooth surface and slow future buildup
- Oral Examination
We carefully inspect each tooth and the gums for signs of disease or damage. - Additional Care (if needed)
If issues such as infections or damaged teeth are found, we will discuss treatment options with you.
Signs Your Pet May Need a Dental Cleaning
Watch for these common signs of dental disease:
- Bad breath
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty eating or chewing
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a dental evaluation.
Preventive Dental Care at Home
In addition to professional cleanings, we recommend:
- Regular tooth brushing
- Dental chews or treats
- Routine wellness exams
Our team can guide you on the best at-home dental care routine for your pet.
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning
Keeping your pet’s teeth clean is one of the best ways to support their long-term health and happiness.
📍 Nordahl Pet Clinic
630 Nordahl Rd, Suite L
San Marcos, CA 92069
📞 (760) 738-7399
Contact us today to schedule your pet’s dental cleaning or to learn more about our dental care services.