Expert Advice
Dental Procedure — Home Care
Your pet has had a dental procedure today. This guide covers what to expect from the anaesthetic, how to care for your pet at home, and when to contact the clinic.
Dental procedures require a general anaesthetic, and recovery involves caring for both the effects of the anaesthetic and the dental work itself. Most pets bounce back quickly — here’s how to make the next few days as comfortable as possible.
General Anaesthetic
Your pet has had a general anaesthetic. This may take several hours to fully wear off, and your pet may appear drowsy or quiet today, however they should be back to their normal behaviour within 24–48 hours. Most pets sleep more than usual for a few days after surgery.
Your pet’s foreleg may have been clipped where the intravenous catheter was placed. A breathing tube was also used during the anaesthetic, which may occasionally cause a mild cough. This should settle within a few days.
When you arrive home, keep your pet warm and comfortable in a quiet, draught-free area with a soft bed. Provide fresh water and offer a small amount of soft food once they are settled. It is normal if they are not very interested in food initially.
Dental Cleaning
Your pet’s teeth were professionally scaled and polished to remove plaque and calculus (tartar). This helps improve bad breath and prevents gum disease, which can lead to gum recession and tooth loss if left untreated.
Tooth Extractions (if performed)
Your pet’s teeth were professionally scaled and polished to remove plaque and calculus (tartar). This helps improve bad breath and prevents gum disease, which can lead to gum recession and tooth loss if left untreated.
Medications
Your pet may be sent home with antibiotics and/or pain relief depending on the dental procedure performed.
Please read the medication labels carefully and administer all medications as directed.
Follow-Up Appointment
Please contact the surgery if you notice:
- Ongoing bleeding from the mouth
- Your pet is not eating normally within 3 days
- Signs of pain when eating
- Pawing at mouth
- Any discharge (pus) from the mouth
Our reception team will book a recheck appointment in 5–7 days to assess healing and discuss ongoing dental home care.