Regardless of how diligently you brush your pet’s teeth or use tarter reducing gels or water additives, you will need to plan for periodic professional dental cleanings. These cleanings are done under anesthesia at your vet’s office and can be pricey but well worth the expense in keeping your pet healthy. Dental disease can cause your pet pain, hamper his ability to eat and may introduce dangerous bacteria into your pet’s bloodstream. Your pet will need to have blood work done to ensure there aren’t any underlying medical issues and that your pet is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. Your vet will clean your pet’s teeth and do any extractions if needed. X-rays may be taken to check on anything that may cause future problems. Your pet can be released without an overnight stay once the anesthesia has worn off. Learn more from your Wake Forest, NC veterinary clinic.