Present this coupon to claim $25 off your pet's first exam and get started with care designed around your pet.

Keep your dog or cat safe this Halloween with tips for managing anxiety, preventing escapes, avoiding toxic treats, and reducing holiday hazards.

Halloween Safety for Pets: 5 Tips for Dogs and Cats

Learn how to recognize signs your pet may be overweight and discover simple ways to support a healthy weight through nutrition, activity, and veterinary care.

Pet Obesity Awareness Month: Healthy Weight Tips

Prepare your pet for the unexpected this National Preparedness Month with tips for emergency kits, evacuation plans, identification, medications, and more.

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Learn the differences between wet and dry cat food, their benefits, and how to choose the right diet for your cat's age, health, and needs.

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: Which Is Best for Your Cat?

Learn how to recognize signs of pain in dogs and cats, understand changes in behavior and mobility, and know when to contact your veterinarian.

Animal Pain Awareness Month: Recognizing the Signs of Pain in Your Pet

Sat Apr 12 2025 02:40:00 GMT+0530 (India Standard Time)

Crestwood Animal Hospital

about-us-page

our-history-section

our-teams-section

We are dedicated to providing the highest level of care along with friendly, compassionate service.

why-us-section

app-download-page

download-app-section

blogs-page

blogs-section

book-appointment-page

book-appointment-section

Embedded content

care-memberships

care-plan

career-page

careers-section

<p dir="auto">At Central Texas Vet, we go beyond standard testing.</p><p dir="auto">Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.</p><p dir="auto">Your dog’s evaluation may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Comprehensive physical exam</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Cardiac screening</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Advanced diagnostics when needed</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.</p>

<p dir="auto">Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.</p>

Dr. Roy Madigan, D.V.M., is not just a veterinarian. He is one of the leading experts in canine Chagas disease in the United States.
<br><br>
• Founder of Vida Pharmacal, focused on breakthrough parasitic disease treatments
<br>• Filed the first veterinary drug patent for anti-T. cruzi activity in dogs
<br>• Principal scientist for the U.S. military working dog Chagas treatment study
<br>• Veterinary lead for the Texas Chagas Task Force alongside the CDC and UT Health
<br>• Pioneer in developing diagnostic and treatment protocols for infected dogs
<br><br>
Your pet is being treated by the same expert helping shape how Chagas disease is understood nationwide.

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.</p><p dir="auto">Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.</p><p dir="auto">Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Heart disease</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Arrhythmias</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Sudden death</p></li></ul><p dir="auto"></p>

Get In Touch

<b>Early Detection. Advanced Treatment. Led by One of the Nation’s Top Experts.</b>

<b>Do not wait for symptoms to appear.</b>

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease progresses in stages. The earlier it is identified:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">The more treatment options are available</p></li><li><p dir="auto">The better heart damage can be managed</p></li><li><p dir="auto">The higher the chance of improving quality of life</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Waiting can mean irreversible cardiac damage.</p>

If your dog may have been exposed to kissing bugs, do not wait. Chagas disease can silently damage the heart before symptoms appear. Early diagnosis can make the difference.

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease is often silent early on, but warning signs may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Lethargy or decreased activity</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Fainting or collapse</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Irregular heartbeat</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Difficulty breathing</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Unexplained weight loss</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">If your dog spends time outdoors, lives in Central Texas, or has been exposed to insects, they may be at risk even without symptoms.</p>

If your dog may be at risk, schedule an evaluation today and get answers from one of the leading experts in the field.

chagas-disease

<p dir="auto">At The Animal Hospital of Smithson Valley, we go beyond standard testing.</p><p dir="auto">Dr. Madigan is actively developing advanced serologic testing methods to improve detection accuracy.</p><p dir="auto">Your dog’s evaluation may include:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Comprehensive physical exam</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Cardiac screening</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Specialized blood testing for T. cruzi</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Advanced diagnostics when needed</p></li></ul><p dir="auto">Early detection allows for better management and improved outcomes.</p>

<p dir="auto">Chagas disease is caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, transmitted by “kissing bugs” commonly found in Texas.</p><p dir="auto">Once infected, dogs may appear normal while the parasite attacks the heart and other organs.</p><p dir="auto">Without intervention, Chagas can lead to:</p><ul><li><p dir="auto">Sudden death</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Heart disease</p></li><li><p dir="auto">Arrhythmias</p></li></ul><p dir="auto"></p>

chagas-disease-ahsv

contact-us

copy-of-chagas-disease

Accordion Title

#1f2937

forms-page

get-in-touch

landing-page

contact-us-section

faq-section

footer-section

hero-section

otto-widget-section

our-services-section

testimonials-section

vetstoria-widget-section

Financial Aid:

Obedience:

Local Dog Parks:

Boarding Kennels In Our Area:

Microchipping:

Doggie Daycare in our Area:

Adoptions:

General Information:

links-and-resources

news-page

our-history-page

Our <b>East Side Entrance</b> is located on Early Street, across from the Hanover Apartment Building. Our <b>North Side Entrance</b> is located on Irby Avenue, across from Woody’s Cheesesteak.

parking

payment-info-page

payment-information-section

payment-section-3

promotions

services-page

service-page-section

team-page

teams-page-section

video-page

pixel_google

pixel_facebook

Header Cookie Consent - 671f33c5d8e9f7c6b5f082c9

cookie_settings_1750955345987

<button id="ot-sdk-btn" class="ot-sdk-show-settings">Cookie Settings</button>
 

cookie_list_1750955346272

cookie_microsoft

<p dir="auto">A professional veterinary dental cleaning is one of the most effective ways to protect a pet’s oral health. While home care plays an important role, thorough dental cleaning requires specialized tools, clinical training, and anesthesia to reach below the gumline where most disease develops.</p><h2 dir="auto">Initial Pre Anesthetic Assessment</h2><p dir="auto">Before any dental cleaning begins, your veterinary team performs a full physical examination and reviews your pet’s medical history. Bloodwork may be recommended to evaluate organ function and ensure your pet can safely undergo anesthesia. This assessment allows the team to tailor the anesthetic plan to your pet’s needs. Healthy anesthesia reduces risk and ensures the dental cleaning can be completed thoroughly and safely.</p><h2 dir="auto">Anesthesia and Monitoring</h2><p dir="auto">Anesthesia is required because pets cannot remain still or tolerate deep cleaning while awake. Anesthesia allows veterinarians to clean below the gumline, take accurate dental radiographs, and perform procedures without causing stress or discomfort. Throughout anesthesia, your pet’s heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and temperature are continuously monitored by trained veterinary staff. Reliable monitoring contributes to both safety and procedural accuracy.</p><h2 dir="auto">Full Oral Examination</h2><p dir="auto">Once your pet is comfortable under anesthesia, the veterinary team performs a detailed oral examination. This includes evaluation of each tooth, the gumline, oral tissues, jaw alignment, and signs of inflammation or infection. Many dental problems are hidden beneath the surface; this detailed exam reveals abnormalities not visible during an awake exam.</p><h2 dir="auto">Dental Radiographs</h2><p dir="auto">Radiographs are one of the most important components of dental cleaning. They allow veterinarians to evaluate the roots, supporting bone, and structures below the gumline. Conditions such as root infections, resorptive lesions, fractured roots, or bone loss cannot be diagnosed without radiographs. The findings help determine whether teeth require additional treatment or extraction. Radiographs are essential for an accurate diagnosis.</p><h2 dir="auto">Scaling Above and Below the Gumline</h2><p dir="auto">Using specialized ultrasonic and hand instruments, the veterinary team removes plaque and tartar from every tooth surface. Cleaning below the gumline is critical because this is where periodontal disease begins. Subgingival cleaning can only be performed safely when the pet is under anesthesia. Removing bacteria from these pockets helps prevent infection, gum recession, and long term periodontal damage.</p><h2 dir="auto">Polishing the Teeth</h2><p dir="auto">After scaling, the teeth are polished to smooth microscopic grooves created during cleaning. Smooth tooth surfaces slow the future buildup of plaque and help maintain a clean mouth for longer. Polishing is an important preventive step that supports long term oral health.</p><h2 dir="auto">Treatment Planning and Extractions When Necessary</h2><p dir="auto">If dental radiographs or the oral exam reveal damaged or infected teeth, your veterinarian may recommend extraction. Extractions vary in complexity depending on root structure, bone involvement, and severity of disease. This is one of the primary factors that can increase the cost of a dental procedure. Treating diseased teeth promptly prevents pain, infection, and costly complications.</p><h2 dir="auto">Recovery and At Home Care Guidance</h2><p dir="auto">After the procedure, your pet is closely monitored while waking from anesthesia. Once stable, the veterinary team reviews post procedure instructions, which may include medications, diet modifications, and follow up recommendations. Most pets recover quickly and experience improved comfort once dental inflammation is addressed.</p><h2 dir="auto">What Influences the Cost of a Professional Dental Cleaning?</h2><p dir="auto">The cost of a veterinary dental cleaning depends on several factors. These include pre anesthetic testing, anesthesia duration, the need for dental radiographs, the number of staff involved, the extent of scaling and polishing required, and whether any extractions or advanced treatments are necessary. While costs vary between pets, preventive cleanings are consistently less expensive than treating advanced periodontal disease. Early care helps avoid emergency visits, surgical extractions, and long term infection management.</p><h2 dir="auto">Why Professional Dental Cleanings Are Worth the Investment</h2><p dir="auto">Professional pet dental cleanings enhance quality of life, reduce pain, and protect systemic health. Oral bacteria can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys, so controlling dental disease has far reaching benefits. Regular cleanings also help maintain healthy teeth, reduce the number of extractions needed later in life, and support overall well-being. Investing in preventive dental care saves money long term by reducing the risk of advanced disease.</p><h2 dir="auto">Keep Your Pet’s Mouth Healthy with Professional Dental Care</h2><p dir="auto">Professional cleanings are an essential part of lifelong preventive health care. If your pet has not had a recent dental exam or you are unsure whether a cleaning is needed, schedule a visit with your nearest United Veterinary Care clinic. Early care protects comfort, health, and long term cost.</p><p dir="auto"></p><p dir="auto"></p>

Many pet owners are surprised by what is included in a dental procedure and how these components influence the overall cost. Understanding each step helps explain why professional cleanings are essential and how they prevent more significant expenses caused by untreated dental disease.

What Happens During a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning? Understanding the Procedure and Costs

gtm_67f9852803a946b407b4f0e7

If you are interested in working at the Crestwood Animal Hospital, please submit your cover letter and resume to the form below.

crestwoodanimalhospital

Fear Free offers expert education on pet well-being, enrichment, and reducing fear, anxiety, and stress.

This accreditation is important as it exemplifies the standard of veterinary excellence.

USA TODAY and Statista have named Crestwood Vet Hospital among the top veterinary clinics in the nation.

This program is leading the movement to make veterinary care less stressful for cats and their family.

<p>To help us provide the best care possible, payment is required at the time of service. We accept cash and all major credit cards, and we are happy to offer a no-interest payment plan through CareCredit.</p>

CareCredit

Trupanion Pet Insurance

ScratchPay

Mr. Dog Training

Tree Frog Farm Personalized – Dog Training and Agility

Brunswick Maine Dog Park

Great Island Kennel

Pet Sitters of Maine

The Brown Dog Inn

Camp Bow Wow

Falmouth Happy Cats

Home Again

The Blue Dog Daycare

Happy Paws Unleashed

Midcoast Humane

Passion for Pets Rescue Organization

Coastal Maine Great Dane Rescue

VeterinaryPartner.com

The Indoor Pet Initiative

Feline Fix by Five

Traveling Out of the Country with Your Pet

AAHA Pet Health Library

Pet Poison Control

$25 Off First Exam for New Clients! See Below for Details.

Additional Services

General Services

Speciality Services

This program is leading the movement to make veterinary care less stressful for cats and their family

Physical rehabilitation involves the diagnosis and management of patients with either painful or functionally limiting mobility issues, particularly those afflicted by orthopedic or neurological conditions.

Pet Rehab

Nutrition is the foundation of good health, and a powerful tool in managing weight, energy, chronic conditions, and even behavior.

Pet Nutrition

When pets act out, there's almost always a reason. Anxiety, fear, medical conditions, or past trauma can show up as barking, biting, hiding, or destruction. Our job is to uncover the cause and help your pet feel safe again.

Pet Behavior & Anxiety Support

Skin issues are one of the most common reasons pets end up at the vet, and they're also some of the most frustrating. Allergies, infections, or even food sensitivities can all cause your pet discomfort.

Dermatology & Allergy Care

When your pet needs medication, trust and convenience matter. At (), we prescribe and dispense medications directly from the team whos seen your pet, knows their health history, and understands their specific needs.
No guessing, no delays, and no unnecessary confusion.


Pet Prescriptions

Saying goodbye is the hardest part of loving a pet. When that time comes, you deserve clarity, comfort, and the space to make decisions with peace of mind.

End-of-Life Support

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light to stimulate healing and reduce pain in animals.

Laser Therapy

Pet acupuncture at () provides gentle, drug-free relief for pain, arthritis, and mobility issues. This holistic therapy boosts circulation, reduces inflammation, and supports healing for happier, healthier pets.

Veterinary Acupuncture

Enhance your pet's recovery and mobility with custom rehabilitation at (). Our expert team uses therapeutic exercise, laser therapy, and underwater treadmill sessions to reduce pain, rebuild strength, and restore comfort. Schedule your pet's rehab consultation today.

Pet Rehabilitation

Your pet can't tell you when something's wrong. That's why regular wellness exams are so important. These visits give us the chance to catch health issues early, before they become painful or costly.  

Wellness Exams

Bad breath isn't just annoying - it's often a sign of deeper health issues. Dental disease in pets can lead to oral pain, local or systemic infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, or kidney complications. 

Dental Care

Fleas, ticks, and intestinal worms are not just a nuisance, they are dangerous. These tiny pests can cause serious health issues like Lyme disease, heartworm disease, and tapeworms. 

Parasite Prevention

Vaccines are one of the most important tools we have to protect pets from serious, often deadly diseases. Whether you have a rambunctious or a relaxed pet, vaccinations help your pet build strong immunity and avoid preventable illness.

Vaccinations

Comprehensive surgical services, from routine procedures to complex operations, all are performed with expert care.

Pet Surgeries

When your pet isn't acting like themselves, diagnostic testing helps us find the reason. From bloodwork, urine testing, and fecal exams to x-rays, these tests give us a window into what's happening inside, so we can take action before things get worse.

Diagnostic Testing

When pets get sick or injured, you want answers fast. Advanced imaging gives us a deeper look, without invasive procedures.


Advanced Diagnostic Imaging

Spaying or neutering your pet is one of the most important decisions you can make for their long-term health. It helps prevent certain cancers and infections, curbs unwanted behaviors, and reduces the number of orphaned pets in shelters.

Spay And Neuter

Discover hidden dental issues before they cause pain with pet dental radiology at (). Our veterinary dental X-rays reveal infections, bone loss, and tooth damage beneath the gum line, ensuring safer, more effective treatment. Non-invasive and included in every comprehensive dental cleaning, dental radiographs for pets help protect your pet's health, comfort, and smile for years to come.


Dental Radiology

Permanent ID for Peace of Mind. A collar can come off. A tag can get lost. But a microchip is a permanent, tamper-proof way to make sure your pet always has a way home. At (), we offer safe and simple microchip implantation, so your pet stays connected to you, no matter what.

Sheet title

What Happens During a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning? Understanding the Procedure and Costs

Recent Blogs

Related Blogs

Bad Breath in Pets: What It Means and When to See the Veterinarian

How Dental Disease Impacts Heart, Kidney, and Lung Health in Pets

Do Dental Cleanings Help Pets Live Longer? What the Research Suggests About Lifespan and Oral Health

FAQs

Sheet title

What Happens During a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning? Understanding the Procedure and Costs

Recent Blogs

Halloween Safety for Pets: 5 Tips for Dogs and Cats

Pet Obesity Awareness Month: Healthy Weight Tips

National Preparedness Month: How to Prepare Your Pet for an Emergency

Related Blogs

Bad Breath in Pets: What It Means and When to See the Veterinarian

How Dental Disease Impacts Heart, Kidney, and Lung Health in Pets

Do Dental Cleanings Help Pets Live Longer? What the Research Suggests About Lifespan and Oral Health

FAQs

What introductory discounts are available for new veterinary clients?

My cat gets stressed at the vet. What do you do to help?

Do you treat exotic pets at Crestwood Animal Hospital?

How often should I bring my pet to the vet for a check-up?

Do you offer pet dental care services?

What should I do if my pet shows signs of illness?