Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment & Treatment (COHAT)
A full, veterinary gold-standard dental program combining thorough oral probing, full-mouth digital radiography, subgingival ultrasonic scaling, polishing, and restorative care to keep your pet's mouth pain-free and healthy.
Schedule Your Pet's COHAT
Complete Oral Assessment & Care for Your Pet
Oral Probing & Detailed Charting
Individual examination and pocket-depth measurement for every single tooth (all 42 in dogs and 30 in cats) to identify early gum recession and hidden infection.
- Individual periodontal probing
- Subgingival pocket measurement
- Complete anatomical tooth charting
Full-Mouth Digital Dental X-Rays
Because over 60% of pet teeth live hidden beneath the gumline, high-definition digital radiography reveals root fractures, abscesses, and jawbone loss.
- Root canal and abscess detection
- Evaluation of jawbone structure
- Feline tooth resorption screening
Subgingival Scaling & Gentle Therapy
Ultrasonic cleaning beneath the gumline to clear destructive bacteria, followed by fine-grit polishing and gentle extractions with nerve blocks when needed.
- Deep subgingival plaque removal
- Enamel smoothing & polishing
- Comfortable local nerve numbing
The 4 Stages of a COHAT Procedure
Pre-Dental Check
Morning arrival check-in and blood panel review to confirm your dog or cat's internal organs are ready for safe anesthesia.
Airway & Vitals Care
A protected breathing tube and continuous, dedicated one-on-one monitoring of heartbeat, oxygen, and temperature.
Assessment & Treatment
Digital X-rays, ultrasonic scaling above and beneath the gums, polishing, and any needed dental treatments.
Afternoon Reunion
Gentle warming recovery until your pet is alert, followed by same-day discharge with easy home-care instructions.
Signs Your Pet May Have Oral Pain
Pets have a natural instinct to hide mouth discomfort and will keep eating even with loose or infected teeth.
- Persistent Bad Breath: Pungent odor usually indicates active bacterial buildup under the gums.
- Red or Inflamed Gums: Gingivitis causing irritation, tenderness, and bleeding during chewing.
- Chewing on One Side: Dropping pieces of kibble, favoring soft food, or pawing at the mouth.
Why COHAT Requires Anesthesia
A true medical dental assessment cannot be done effectively while a pet is awake.
- Cleaning Beneath the Gums: Destructive bacteria live under the gumline where awake scraping cannot safely reach.
- Zero Fear or Discomfort: Anesthesia keeps your pet calm, completely still, and free of anxiety or stress.
- Airway Protection: An intubated airway ensures bacteria and water mist never enter your pet's lungs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a COHAT different from a basic dental cleaning?
A basic cleaning only scrapes visible tartar off the surface. A COHAT is a complete medical assessment: dental X-rays of every root, gum pocket measurement, cleaning beneath the gums, and treatment of diseased teeth.
How often should my dog or cat receive a COHAT?
Most pets benefit from a COHAT every 12 to 24 months. Small dog breeds and cats prone to dental disease often benefit from an annual assessment.
Will my pet be able to eat comfortably if teeth are extracted?
Yes. Your pet's gums heal very quickly within 10 to 14 days. Eating soft food with pain-free, healthy gums is much more comfortable than trying to eat with broken or infected teeth.
How do you keep my pet safe during anesthesia?
We perform pre-anesthetic blood testing, place an intravenous catheter for hydration and blood pressure support, and have a dedicated team member monitoring your pet's vitals throughout the entire procedure.