We want you to feel fully informed about your pet’s care at River Park. Here’s what you can expect if your pet is scheduled for a dental procedure:
- At least three days before the procedure, we will perform preoperative tests, including bloodwork. These tests help find potential problems that might complicate surgery if not found and treated early.
- Your pet is not to have any food past 8 p.m. the night before the procedure, but water is okay.
And don’t forget: When the doctor recommends a dental cleaning for your pet, you’ll get a 10% discount if you schedule the procedure within 30 days of the recommendation!
On the day of the procedure:
1. Check-in. Your pet will be dropped off on the morning of the surgery
2. Sedation and IV Catheter Placement. Using an IV catheter minimizes the risk of complications associated with intramuscular or subcutaneous injections and ensures that medications and fluids are delivered precisely, reducing the potential for errors. Anesthesia can sometimes lead to a drop in blood pressure, which can be dangerous for the pet. An IV catheter allows the veterinarian to administer fluids and medications to stabilize blood pressure, reducing the risk of complications. Finally, an IV catheter provides a route for rapidly administering any drugs your pet may need in an emergency.
3. Pre-Operative X-Rays. These are essential to detecting issues like:
- Cavities
- Decay beneath existing fillings
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Areas of infection
- The position of unerupted or impacted teeth
- Abscessed teeth
- Cysts and some types of tumors
4. Dental Cleaning and Polishing.
5. Extractions and Suturing (if needed).
6. Post-Operative X-Rays (if needed). Some teeth (especially in cats) have very small roots. After the extraction, another X-ray will be taken to ensure no root fragments are left in the mouth. In case of any breakage during extraction, small tooth fragments can be detected through post-operative X-rays. Efforts will then be made to remove any small fragments to prevent future infections.
7. Recovery. Your pets will be closely observed for three hours after surgery. A blanket and a warming pad (if needed) will be provided to keep them comfortable. Temperature will be taken periodically to ensure their body temperature resume to normal.
8. Pick Up. Once your pet is recovered and ready to go home, we will call and let you know. Any post-op instructions or medications will be thoroughly explained when you pick up your pet.