Dental Aftercare
Your pet has undergone a dental procedure. Prior to the procedure, they received a full examination by their veterinarian and will have had bloodwork done if requested.
​
About the procedure
The procedure entails dental radiographs being taken and assessed by a veterinarian, a physical assessment of the mouth, possible extractions of diseased teeth, and a scale and polish of all teeth. Recovery is rapid, and aftercare is minimal if there were no extractions. If teeth have been extracted, the recovery time is usually 3 - 7 days; however, this may differ between patients. All surgical procedures include IVFT (intravenous fluid therapy) and pain relief if required.
​
Aftercare
When you collect your pet, they may be quite sleepy following their anaesthetic and procedure. You may offer them a small meal after they have settled in at home. We recommend offering about 1/3 of the size of their usual dinner. Do not be concerned if your pet does not show interest in their food on the first night after their procedure; the main reason they may not be interested in food is possible nausea from the anaesthetic, and/or drowsiness. If your pet has had extractions, we recommend only feeding soft foods for the first 2-4 days. If your pet has had many extractions, we recommend feeding soft foods for longer, however, this will be confirmed at the collection of your pet.
​
Your pet may have been given medications during their stay at our clinic, and may have take home medications which a nurse will have discussed with you during discharge. If you have any questions about medication, please do no hesitate to contact the clinic and ask.
​
Your pet may have sutures after extractions. These do not need to be removed, and will dissolve on their own.
​
If your pet has any other requirements specific to their procedure, a nurse will have discussed these with you. If you have any questions regarding these requirements, please contact the clinic.
​
A recheck may be requested by the veterinarian 10-14 days after the procedure; if this is the case, please contact reception to make a booking.
​
When to contact the clinic:
-
Your pet is showing signs of discomfort around their mouth area (small discomfort is to be expected after extractions; monitor and call if this discomfort becomes worse).
-
Your pet is overly lethargic, vomiting, or reluctant to eat by the following day.
-
You feel your pet may be in pain.
-
If you have any questions about medications.
-
If you have any other concerns.
​
Take away points
-
Please offer a small amount of food (1/3 of their usual meal size) the night of the procedure.
-
Please feed soft foods for a couple of days if your pet had extractions.
-
Do not be concerned if your pet is not interested in food on the first night.
-
There are no sutures to be removed.
-
Your pet may have been prescribed take home medication.
-
Keep your pet in a warm environment.