Gentle Vet's Guide to Sparkling Smiles: Post-Op & Home Dental Care for Your Dog

As loving pet parents, we want our furry friends to live long, happy, and healthy lives. A crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of their well-being is canine dental health. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from painful dental disease, which can impact their overall health, potentially leading to issues like heart disease, tooth root infections, and chronic pain. At Gentle Vet, we believe in proactive and compassionate care, especially when it comes to your dog's teeth.
Whether your dog has just undergone a professional dog teeth cleaning or you're looking to establish a preventative routine, this guide from Gentle Vet will walk you through essential post-op dental care for dogs and effective home dental care for dogs.

The Road to Recovery: Post-Operative Dental Care for Dogs

Your dog has just had a dental procedure, and our team at Gentle Vet has ensured they received the best possible care, including a comprehensive oral exam, digital dental radiographs, ultrasonic scaling, and polishing. Now, it's your turn to help them recover comfortably and safely at home.

• Safe Arrival & Gentle Monitoring:
  • Proper Restraint: When leaving the hospital, please protect your pet by using either a leash or carrier. Do not allow them to become overly active or excited.
  • Quiet Rest: Provide a calm, warm, and comfortable space for your dog to rest away from other pets or boisterous activity. Use caution near stairs, as your pet may still be groggy from anesthesia.
  • Observe for Swelling/Bleeding: Minor swelling or a tiny amount of blood-tinged saliva is normal, especially for 3-5 days if extractions were performed. If blood clots are noted in the mouth, please leave them in place. However, significant bleeding or persistent, excessive swelling warrants a call to Gentle Vet.
  • Pain Management: We will likely send your dog home with pain medication. Administer it exactly as prescribed to keep them comfortable. Never give human pain relievers.
• When to Contact Gentle Vet (or Emergency Care):
  • While some post-op signs are normal, it's crucial to know when to seek immediate veterinary attention. Please contact us immediately at 920-435-5000 if you observe any of the following conditions:
    • Refusal to eat or drink for one day
    • Depression
    • Weakness
    • Elevated or sub-normal temperature (which can be exhibited by seeking out cold or warm places)
    • Diarrhea
    • Vomiting
    • Severe pain
  • If we are unavailable, please contact Blue Pearl Fox Valley at 920-993-9193. For exotics and pocket pets, try Veterinary Emergency Group in Brookfield 262-267-8240 or University of Wisconsin Madison 608-263-7600.
• Feeding After Dental Surgery:
  • Initial Wait: We do not recommend giving your dog any food or water for 1/2 hour after coming home, as vomiting may occur due to the excitement of returning home.
  • Soft Food Only: For at least 7-14 days (or as advised by Gentle Vet), feed only soft food. This prevents irritation to surgical sites and allows gums to heal. You can soften kibble with warm water or use canned food. This is especially important if extractions were performed, as the extraction sites need time to heal.
  • Decreased Appetite: It is normal for your dog to have a decreased appetite for a few days post-procedure.
  • Avoid Chewing: Absolutely no hard treats, bones, or chew toys until your veterinarian gives the all-clear.
• Activity Restrictions:
  • Quiet for 24-48 Hours: It is important that you keep your dog as quiet as possible for the next 24-48 hours. Watch that your pet does not over exert.
  • No Strenuous Activity: Prevent running, jumping, and strenuous activities.
  • Leash Walks Only: Keep walks short and on a leash only when outside.
• Medication & Follow-Up:
  • Complete All Medications: Finish the entire course of antibiotics (if prescribed) and pain medication.
  • Sutures: If extractions were performed, sutures are in place and will dissolve over the next few weeks.
  • Follow-Up Appointment: Ensure you attend any scheduled follow-up appointments at Gentle Vet so we can assess healing and discuss the next steps for long-term dog dental care.

Building a Foundation: Essential Home Dental Care for Dogs

Once your dog has recovered from their dental procedure (typically starting tomorrow for routine cleanings, or in 5-7 days if extractions were performed), or if you're simply looking to prevent future dental issues, establishing a consistent home dental care routine is paramount. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the need for future professional dog teeth cleaning procedures and improve your dog's overall quality of life.

• The Gold Standard: Brushing Your Dog's Teeth
  • Start Early & Gently: Introduce brushing gradually, making it a positive experience. Use a soft-bristled pet toothbrush or a finger brush and pet-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste!).
  • Focus on the Outside: Most dental disease occurs on the outer surfaces of the teeth, so focus your efforts there.
  • Consistency is Key: Aim for daily brushing. Even a few times a week is better than nothing!
• Dental Chews & Treats:
  • Veterinary Approved: Look for dental chews and treats that carry the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal of acceptance. This indicates they meet standards for reducing plaque and tartar.
  • Size Matters: Choose appropriate sizes for your dog to prevent choking hazards.
  • Not a Substitute: While helpful, dental chews are not a replacement for brushing.
• Dental Diets:
  • Specialized Kibble: Some prescription dental diets are designed with unique fiber matrices or kibble shapes that help scrub teeth as your dog eats. Discuss these options with our team at Gentle Vet.
• Regular Oral Examinations at Home:
  • Get Familiar: Periodically lift your dog's lips to check for signs of dental disease:
    • Bad breath (halitosis)
    • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
    • Yellow or brown tartar buildup
    • Loose or broken teeth
    • Reluctance to eat or chew
    • Drooling
  • Contact Gentle Vet: If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with us promptly.

Why Choose Gentle Vet for Your Dog's Dental Health?

At Gentle Vet, we are dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive veterinary dentistry. Our experienced team uses state-of-the-art equipment and gentle techniques to ensure your dog's comfort and safety during every procedure, from routine check-ups to advanced dental care. We believe in educating pet owners, empowering you to be an active participant in your dog's health journey. Regular dental care, including professional cleanings and home maintenance, is crucial for preventing painful conditions and promoting overall wellness.

Ready to give your dog the gift of a healthy smile?
Contact Gentle Vet today to schedule a dental consultation or professional cleaning!
920-435-5000