Frequently Asked Questions
Huh?
1
Doesn't lower cost mean lower quality?
Not at all! We are able to keep costs down by keeping overhead costs as low as possible. Since we do not need to maintain a full-service facility, extensive equipment, or comprehensive pharmacy, the cost for supplies, space, and staffing are significantly reduced.
2
Do you accept walk-in appointments?
Unfortunately, walk-in appointments are not available. If you are interested in having a dental consultation scheduled, please give us a call at (719) 653-7373. This helps us to ensure we are scheduling adequate time to provide high quality service and thorough communication to each and every family!
3
Why are all procedures performed under general anesthesia?
Without anesthesia, we cannot provide safe and thorough oral assessments, cleaning (especially under the gumline), or interventions as needed to address broken, painful, or infected teeth. Every dental procedure will be performed under general anesthesia with continuous monitoring, full mouth xrays, and a detailed cleaning (including under the gums!). General anesthesia will also facilitate extractions, closed root planing (aka guided tissue regeneration), and bonded sealants if needed. Anesthesia-free dentisty may make your pet's teeth LOOK healthy, however painful or infected teeth are very often overlooked and not addressed appropriately. Anesthesia also ensures that your pet will remain comfortable and stress-free during the procedure! For more information, please follow the link to the American Veterinary Dental College's stance on anesthesia-free dentistry:
Facts - Anesthesia Free Pet Dental Cleanings - Know the Facts
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4
How do I know if my pet needs a dental?
One of the easiest signs to notice at home is bad breath - a foul or fishy odor from the mouth is a sign that there is likely something unhealthy in the mouth! Other signs can be general grumpiness, dropping food, shying away from head/face pets, panting, or general restlessness. The only way for us to see what is going on is with an anesthetized dental procedure and full mouth x-rays.
5
How much does a dental procedure cost?
Please see our Services page for a list of common costs (this list is not all-inclusive; an in-person estimate will provide you the most accurate cost estimate for your specific pet). Feel free to give us a call to schedule! Please keep in mind that an estimate is just that - an estimate! We will not know for sure what your pet needs until after we complete an anesthetized exam with full mouth xrays on the day of your pet's procedure.
6
Why is dental care so important?
Dental disease, when left untreated, is PAINFUL. Dogs and cats generally do everything they can to mask signs of pain, likely as an evolutionary self-preservation trait. Dental disease can also lead to other health concerns such as heart disease, chronic inflammation, bone loss, jaw fracture, abscess formation, weight loss, behavior changes, and oronasal fistulas (bone loss through to the nasal passage). Addressing dental disease early and maintaining good oral care throughout life will positively impact your pet's long-term quality of life!
7
What do I need in order to schedule a dental procedure?
Recent bloodwork (at minimum a CBC and Chemistry 10) within the last 6 months is needed. If you do not have recent bloodwork for your pet, we can send out a preanesthetic bloodwork panel to check for sign of internal organ dysfunction; your pet must be brought in at least 2 business days prior to the scheduled procedure in order to get the results in time. You also must have proof of a current rabies certificate. If you do not have a current rabies certificate, you can get this from your primary care veterinarian or any of the vaccine clinics in the area (Humane Society of Pikes Peak Region, Hamlett Spay & Neuter, etc). We do not provide rabies vaccines.
