The American Veterinary Medical Association sponsors National Pet Dental Month every February.
Poor dental hygiene can impact more than just your animals teeth. Bacterial Endocarditis is a bacterial infection that affects the inner lining of the heart, and this is seen commonly in dogs that have dental disease.
Dental care on your animal should be performed by a Veterinarian, or a board certified Veterinary Dentist. In some states, Veterinary Technicians are allowed to complete some dental procedures under the supervision by a Veterinarian.
Things to avoid to extend the life of your dental handpiece:
- Applying too much pressure to the burr
This can damage the bearing the in the head of the handpiece - Dropping the handpiece
Handpieces are delicate instruments, dropping them can damage internal parts - Using a high-speed handpiece without water
This can cause the bearing and burr to overheat, and could injure the animal and damage the handpiece - Not lubricating handpieces
It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s directions for handpiece maintenance to extend the life of your handpiece, including lubrication of the handpiece. - Replace burs after a few times of use
Bur shafts wear out, making it difficult to securely chuck the bur in the turbine, resulting in free spinning and possible chuck damage
It’s important to have your dental station checked to ensure its functioning as the manufacturer intends. This may give you the opportunity to get ahead of a problem before it impacts your business, and the service you’re able to provide your veterinary clients.
Governing bodies regulate the frequency which you’re required to have your equipment checked, so be sure to review. Acura Medical Systems, Inc. recommends having your equipment checked at least once per year.
Sources:
https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/pet-dental-care