Expert Veterinary Care in Winter Park

As pet owners, we all want what’s best for our fur babies, especially when it comes to their health. Dental care is an essential part of a pet’s overall health, yet many pet parents are enticed by the idea of anesthesia-free dental cleanings. Marketed as a safer, less expensive alternative to traditional veterinary dentistry, these procedures claim to clean your pet’s teeth while they area wake. At first glance, anesthesia-free dentals (also known as “awake dentals” or “non-anesthetic dentals”) may seem like a good idea—after all, anesthesia can feel scary (see our blog “Addressing Hesitancy Around Anesthesia”). However, these procedures do not provide real dental care and can actually do more harm than good.Anesthesia-free dental cleanings give the illusion of a healthy mouth by primarily focusing on scraping visible tartar off the surface of the teeth. While this may make your pet’s mouth look cleaner, it does not address the real issue: periodontal disease. Most dental disease occurs beneath the gum line, where bacteria and plaque accumulate, leading to inflammation, infection, pain, and eventually tooth loss. Without anesthesia, there is no way to properly clean below the gum line, where periodontal disease thrives. Additionally, awake dentals do not allow for dental X-rays, which are critical for detecting hidden problems such as root infections, bone loss, or abscesses. In essence, an anesthesia-free dental is purely cosmetic—it makes the teeth look better without actually improving oral health.

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and festivity, but it also brings unique challenges for pet owners. From twinkling lights to delectable treats, the season's splendor can pose unexpected risks to our furry companions. To ensure your pets remain safe and happy throughout the holidays, it’s crucial to be aware of potential hazards and take preventive measures.