To help you better understand the importance of a COHAT and what to expect, we’ve put together some answers to the most common questions.
What type of dental services do you provide?
We provide a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT), which includes tailored anesthesia and monitoring, full-mouth radiographs, ultrasonic scaling, polishing, charting all teeth, day hospitalization/boarding, IV catheterization, simple surgical extractions, oral biopsies, gum treatments, and periodontal therapies, and a detailed discharge report. In the event of extremely complex cases, we may refer you to a specialist.
How much does a COHAT and dental extractions cost?
While the COHAT carries a fixed rate per pet, our Veterinary Clinic team will be happy to provide you with a precise estimate after an initial examination. We sometimes offer perioceutical product applications on a case-by-case basis to improve gum and bone health. These products, such as Periovive, Consil, and Sanos, are charged separately. Medications, extractions, and oral surgery are not included in the standard pricing.
What are Perioceuticals? How can they help my pet?
Perioceutics are advanced dental products that support gum and bone health by slowing the progression of periodontal disease. These treatments work alongside professional dental cleanings to extend their benefits and improve oral health.
- Sanos is a veterinary dental sealant applied after a Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT) to create a protective barrier along the gumline, preventing plaque and bacteria buildup and slowing gum disease progression.
- Periovive is an antimicrobial gel that reduces bacterial growth and inflammation, supporting gum tissue health and healing.
- Consil is a bone graft substitute used in cases of severe periodontal disease or after extractions to promote bone regeneration and long-term oral health.
If applicable, our veterinarians will recommend perioceutic treatment for your pet based on their specific dental needs.
Why can’t all extractions be done at the same time as the COHAT?
Depending on the findings during your pet’s COHAT, further Staged Oral Surgery may be needed. Though this may seem inconvenient, our doctors have found that some teeth with borderline needs for extraction will heal in the time between the first cleaning and the subsequent visit, thanks to the initial treatment provided during the COHAT. The benefits of this type of staging include:
- Reverse disease: In some cases, gum healing after the COHAT can spare certain teeth from extraction.
- Perioceutical savior: The protective layer that Sanos provides can save some teeth from the need for extraction and allow time to assess the impact before deciding.
- Reduced costs: Some cases of periodontal disease, with consistent home care, can resolve after cleaning, which eliminates the need for extraction.
- Safer anesthesia: Shorter procedures mean reduced anesthesia time, which is safer for your pet.
- Smoother Recovery: Staging reduces the stress and discomfort of multiple extractions in one visit.
- Better Planning: Our doctors can more accurately plan for the specific extractions and oral surgery needed.
When should my pet get a COHAT?
Most puppies and kittens should have their first dental check-up with a veterinarian around the age of 6 months when their adult teeth come in. Cats and small dogs (less than 30 lbs.) should have their first professional COHAT around 1 year of age. For larger dog breeds, it’s usually closer to 2 years old, as their bodies develop at a slower rate. If your pet has signs of early-stage or advanced gingivitis or periodontal disease, a professional COHAT will be required to prevent the disease from developing further. Common signs that your pet may need a COHAT include bad breath, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, or yellow/brown buildup (tartar) on the teeth. We recommend that your pet be assessed once a year.
Why is anesthesia necessary for a COHAT? Is it safe for my pet?
Anesthesia ensures we can perform a deep and thorough cleaning while keeping your pet safe and pain-free. It allows us to clean below the gum line, where most dental disease occurs, and perform any necessary extractions or treatments without causing distress. At JM Veterinary Clinic, we take extensive precautions to ensure your pet’s safety during anesthesia, conducting pre-anesthetic bloodwork to assess overall health and monitoring your pet closely throughout the procedure. Most pets recover quickly after their dental procedure. Mild grogginess is normal, but they typically return to their usual selves within 24 hours.
Is an anesthesia-free COHAT recommended?
No! The American Veterinary Dental College strongly discourages anesthesia-free COHATs for various reasons. These types of COHATs fail to remove plaque and bacteria from under the gumline, leaving periodontal disease virtually untreated. It can also require stressful restraints, which can cause pain for pets. Anesthesia-free COHATs do not allow for thorough oral exams and x-rays, essential to detecting hidden issues, which can ultimately lead to higher long-term costs and health risks for your pet’s care.
How long does the COHAT procedure take?
A typical Routine COHAT typically takes about 20-45 minutes. Extended COHATs can take up to two hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. Your pet is carefully monitored throughout the procedure to ensure their comfort and safety. To promote a smooth recovery and minimize time under anesthesia, we schedule Extended COHAT procedures for no more than two hours at a time. Our doctors may recommend a Staged Oral Surgery approach in cases where additional treatment is needed.
How can I maintain my pet’s dental health at home?
Brushing your pet’s teeth daily (or as often as possible) with pet-safe toothpaste is essential and the best way to prevent plaque buildup.
It’s important to gradually get your pet used to having their mouth handled and work up to using a toothbrush. Our step-by-step guide on How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth walks you through making your pet comfortable and cleaning their teeth.
We do not typically recommend bones or chew toys, as they can cause tooth fractures and gastrointestinal issues. Only products with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) Seal of Acceptance are safe and effective for plaque and tartar control. You can find a couple of items like the PlaqueOff Chews and Tropiclean Water Additives in our retail store. For a full list of approved products, visit vohc.org.
Is it okay to use human toothpaste? Why is pet-specific toothpaste recommended?
No, you should never give your pet toothpaste meant for people as it can contain dangerous ingredients if swallowed by your pet. Some contain high sodium and fluoride levels, which can ill dogs and cats. Others contain xylitol, which is extremely toxic for dogs! Pet-safe toothpaste is the way to go!
Do you offer affordable dental care options?
We understand that pet dental care is an investment. If you have concerns about costs, our team can discuss available payment options and preventative care plans, like those offered by Scratchpay.
If you have any concerns about your pet’s dental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at JM Veterinary Clinic. Give us a call today at 508-588-5661 to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward a healthier, happier smile for your pet!