Cosmetic Dental Cleanings

Cosmetic dental cleanings, also known as “awake dental cleanings” for cats and dogs might seem convenient and cheap(er), but they overlook crucial aspects of pet dental care. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Lack of Professional Licensing: Cosmetic dental cleaning services are provided by individuals who are not licensed veterinary professionals. There are no licensing to make sure they know and understand what they are doing.
2. No Diagnoses or Treatments: These procedures are only cosmetic cleaning which do not clean under the gumline. This neglects essential diagnostics and treatments for underlying dental issues. Without a comprehensive examination, conditions like periodontal disease goes untreated.
3. Not Intubated: Pets are not intubated during cosmetic cleanings, increasing the risk of foreign material, such as tartar, being inhaled into the lungs. Done properly with us, pets are intubated and have their airways protected throughout their dental procedure. Debris and water in the lungs could cause serious infections that could lead to death. 
4. Heat Damage: The scalers used during these procedures lack a water source, generating heat that damages tooth enamel and surrounding tissue.
5. Inability to Clean Under the Gumline: Effective dental care requires cleaning beneath the gumline, where the dental problems occur. Cosmetic cleanings do not address these areas, leaving pets vulnerable to serious dental diseases. 60% of the tooth is hidden below the gumline.
6. Fear and Anxiety: Many pets experience fear and anxiety during mouth handling, which cosmetic dental cleanings could exacerbate. This stress can hinder the owner’s attempts at brushing pet’s teeth at home. This could also lead to an anxious and stressed pet when meeting new people. 
7. Risk of Injury: If a pet moves unexpectedly during the cleaning, they can be injured by the scaler, resulting in cuts or other trauma to their mouth.
8. Importance of Anesthesia: True dental health goes beyond just the surface. Comprehensive dental care requires a thorough cleaning and assessment under anesthesia, allowing veterinarians to check pockets around the teeth, clean under the gums, and perform dental radiographs. This complete evaluation is essential for assessing the true health of the tooth and preventing more serious health issues down the line.

Overall, while cosmetic dental cleanings may appear convenient, they do not provide the thorough and safe care that pets need for optimal dental health. We at Chicopee Hills Animal Clinic recommend against them. Regular veterinary dental cleanings done correctly under anesthesia are crucial for ensuring a complete and effective assessment and treatment.