Veterinary Dental Cleaning in Reno, NV

Complete Dog Teeth Cleaning & Cat Dental Services

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Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment

A comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment, also called a COHAT, is essential to any pet's veterinary care. These routine dental cleanings involve a thorough examination, imaging, complete dental cleaning, and a treatment plan tailored to your pet's oral needs. Your pet will receive general anesthesia before their COHAT for a stress-free and complete oral examination. This allows our veterinary team to access and treat every part of your pet's mouth safely and effectively. Some standard components of a COHAT include the following:
• Full mouth X-rays to detect any issues below the gum line, such as infections, abscesses, and bone loss
• Scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
• Polishing to create a smooth surface that prevents future plaque buildup
• Treatment of dental issues like tooth extractions
• Post-procedure care, including aftercare instructions, medications, or education to support recovery A comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment is more than just a pet dental cleaning. It is a vital part of managing your pet's oral health. Your pet should get a COHAT as often as your veterinarian recommends to prevent dental issues that can cause severe health conditions if left untreated. For more about how we prepare your pet for this procedure, visit our dental preparation instructions.

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From nutritious foods to exercise and regular check-ups, we want the best for our pets so they can live a long, happy life. A critical aspect of this care is veterinary dental cleaning. Just like humans, pets need regular oral care to maintain their dental health and prevent serious complications later in life. By prioritizing your pet's dental cleanings, you can safeguard not only their oral health but also their overall well-being to ensure they are happy and healthy at every age.

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we provide comprehensive pet dental cleaning and veterinary dentistry tailored to your pet's needs. As an AAHA-accredited facility in Reno, NV, we meet the highest standards in veterinary care to ensure your pet's oral health is thoroughly evaluated and treated. From routine cleanings to addressing complex dental issues, we are dedicated to helping your pet live their happiest, healthiest life.

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What to Expect During Your Pet’s Dental Visit

A professional pet dental cleaning at our Reno hospital is a COHAT, a comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment performed under general anesthesia. Most visits follow these steps.

1

Pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork

Our team reviews your pet’s health and builds an anesthesia plan tailored to them.
2

Anesthesia with continuous monitoring

Monitoring throughout the procedure helps keep your pet safe and comfortable.
3

Full oral exam and digital X-rays

Every tooth is examined, and full-mouth dental X-rays show what is happening below the gumline, where more than half of each tooth’s structure sits, according to AAHA.
4

Scaling and polishing

Plaque and tartar are removed above and below the gumline, and the teeth are polished smooth.
5

Treatment and pain management

If a tooth needs attention, our doctors discuss the treatment plan with you, and pain management is part of care before, during, and after the procedure.
6

Recovery and aftercare

Your pet is monitored as they wake up, and you receive clear home care instructions.

Review our dental preparation instructions before the appointment, or learn more about oral surgery and COHAT care.

Why Regular Pet Dental Cleaning Matters

Dental health is closely tied to a pet’s overall well-being, and regular pet dental cleaning appointments support good oral health. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs and cats, which makes dental care a valuable part of pet ownership.

Preventing Dental Disease Through Professional Teeth Cleaning

Professional teeth cleaning removes the plaque and tartar that contribute to periodontal disease. Paired with at-home dental care, regular cleanings help protect your pet’s gums and teeth, and they support your pet’s comfort and overall health over time.

The Connection Between Dental Health and Overall Well-Being

A pet’s dental health is closely linked to their overall health. Dental concerns can show up as bad breath, facial swelling, or changes in eating that may lead to weight loss. Pet dental cleaning is a core part of routine care, and our veterinary team removes plaque and tartar above and below the gumline during every COHAT. Regular cleanings are about more than a bright smile. They support your pet’s comfort and overall well-being.

Causes and Prevention of Dental Disease

Dental disease is common in dogs and cats, and it starts with plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. Periodontal disease, a bacterial infection of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth, develops gradually, so early attention helps keep pets comfortable.

Regular dental cleanings, paired with at-home dental care such as tooth brushing and dental water additives, play an important role in preventing dental disease. A pet’s diet also contributes, and some foods are designed to help reduce tartar buildup. Your veterinarian can help you choose options that suit your pet.

Regular check-ups let our veterinarians spot dental concerns early so care can begin promptly. Our wellness and preventative care program supports year-round oral health monitoring for your pet, and steady home care plus professional cleanings help pets enjoy healthy smiles for years to come.

Veterinary Dental Cleaning FAQ

Why is veterinary dental cleaning important for my pet?

Veterinary dental cleaning supports your pet’s comfort and overall well-being. Most dogs and cats show early signs of periodontal disease by age three, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar that at-home care cannot reach, which helps protect your pet’s teeth and gums.

What happens during a pet dental cleaning at Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care?

A COHAT at our Reno hospital begins with a pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork, followed by general anesthesia with continuous monitoring. Our team then completes a full oral exam, full-mouth dental X-rays, scaling above and below the gumline, and polishing. When needed, extractions or other treatment are performed under the same anesthesia, with pain management before, during, and after the procedure.

How often should my pet get a professional teeth cleaning?

Many pets benefit from a professional cleaning about once a year. Your veterinarian may suggest a different schedule based on your pet’s age, overall health, and current dental health, and regular oral exams help us recommend the right timing for your pet.

How can I tell if my pet needs a dental exam?

Signs include bad breath, yellow or brown buildup on the teeth, red or bleeding gums, drooling, pawing at the mouth, reluctance to eat hard food, and facial swelling. Our guide to signs your pet needs dental care covers each one, and an oral exam with our veterinary team will confirm whether a cleaning or further care is the right next step.

Is anesthesia used for my pet's dental cleaning?

Yes. A COHAT is performed under general anesthesia so our team can examine every tooth, take full-mouth X-rays, and clean above and below the gumline while your pet rests comfortably. Before anesthesia, we complete a pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork, build an anesthesia plan tailored to your pet, and monitor your pet continuously throughout the procedure.

How do I prepare my pet for a dental procedure?

Our dental preparation instructions cover feeding guidance, regular medications and supplements, drop-off details, and what to expect at pickup. Please call (775) 853-6900 if you have questions before the day of the procedure.

Dental Care at Home Between Visits

Daily tooth brushing with a toothpaste made for pets is a helpful habit, and many pets accept it when you start slowly with a few seconds at a time and plenty of praise. Please choose pet toothpaste, since human toothpaste can contain ingredients, such as xylitol, that are unsafe for pets.

Dental diets, treats, and water additives can support daily care, and the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) lists products that meet its plaque and tartar standards. These options work alongside professional cleanings, because an exam and X-rays are needed to evaluate below the gumline.

Our team can show you brushing techniques suited to your pet’s age and temperament and can tell you when to restart home care after a procedure. For more ideas, read our tips on preventing tooth decay in dogs and our guide to cat dental care.

Advanced Dental Care Close to Home

Some pets need care beyond a routine cleaning. Our doctors perform COHAT and dental surgery in house, including extractions when needed. For specialty dental treatment, Dr. Brook Niemiec, a board-certified veterinary dentist, brings his team at Veterinary Dental Specialties to our hospital once a month.

Optional integrative services may also support comfort during recovery, and our team will talk through every option with you before choosing a plan.

Ready to Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Exam?

Our AAHA-accredited hospital in Reno, NV can talk with you about the right dental care plan for your dog or cat.

Request an Appointment or call (775) 853-6900

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Your pet's oral health is essential to their overall well-being. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we are proud to provide safe, effective, and compassionate dental care in Reno, NV. Our team combines advanced technology with a holistic approach to ensure your pet receives the highest standard of care. With our AAHA accreditation and commitment to personalized treatment, we help prevent dental disease and promote a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Whether your pet needs a comprehensive oral surgery and COHAT or preventative maintenance, we are here to guide you every step of the way. We prioritize your pet's safety and comfort to make their dental care experience stress-free and rewarding. To learn more about our payment options or to schedule your pet's dental cleaning, please fill out our contact form.

Trust Reno's AAHA-Accredited Experts for Veterinary Dental Cleaning

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What a Dental Cleaning May Include

Removal of visible plaque and tartar from the teeth
Elimination of plaque and tartar from under the gum
Periodontal probing to assess gum and tooth health
Polishing to smooth enamel scratches that may attract bacteria
Digital dental X-rays to evaluate problems below the gumline

Application of fluoride or a dental sealer
Removal or repair of fractured or infected teeth
Dental charting to monitor the progression of dental disease over time
Inspection of the lips, tongue, and entire mouth for growths, wounds, or other problems

Removal of visible plaque and tartar from the teeth
Elimination of plaque and tartar from under the gum
Periodontal probing to assess gum and tooth health
Polishing to smooth enamel scratches that may attract bacteria
Digital dental X-rays to evaluate problems below the gumline
Application of fluoride or a dental sealer
Removal or repair of fractured or infected teeth
Dental charting to monitor the progression of dental disease over time
Inspection of the lips, tongue, and entire mouth for growths, wounds, or other problems

A tooth may look healthy, yet a dental X-ray can reveal signs of periodontal disease below the gumline.

Why Clients Choose Us: Our Team

We provide traditional veterinary medicine combined with a natural approach. This integrative method allows for comprehensive care addressing your pet’s physical, emotional, and lifestyle needs. Your pet is a complex, wonderful creature with unique and interconnected health requirements. At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, we help your pet live their best life through compassionate, personalized care.

Our practice operates on the principle that quality veterinary medicine involves listening to pet owners, explaining options clearly, and working together to make decisions supporting your animal’s health. We blend traditional veterinary care with holistic treatment options, creating flexibility in how we address health concerns affecting your pet. Learn more about our team and the comprehensive services we offer.

YOUR PET DESERVES THE BEST CARE

We're Here When You Need Us

At Mountain View Animal Hospital & Holistic Pet Care, our AAHA-accredited team is ready to support your pet's health with advanced diagnostics and integrative, holistic therapies — tailored to their unique needs.

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