Information for Veterinarians

NPDA certified providers perform their procedure in a safe, and medically conducive environment, under the guidance of veterinarians. These individuals have strictly abided by the guidelines set forth by the Veterinary Medical Board, and have only practiced anesthesia-free dental cleanings in veterinary hospitals, under the guidance and supervision of licensed veterinarians.

Professional Outpatient Preventive Dental (POPD) Information

Pet Dental Services (PDS) a California- and Florida-based company, has performed a first-of-its-kind, double-blind pilot study analyzing the effectiveness of what was being called a Professional Outpatient Preventive Dental, or (POPD). The study dismissed the myths that surround the practice of non-anesthetic dentistry, and effectively showed that Pet Dental Services was able to complete a POPD on all of the pets with no residual plaque or calculus found. They were also equally capable of recognizing pathology, and there were no post treatment complications. Read more about the results of this study here.

What You Should Expect from a Company or Individual Providing a Professional Outpatient Preventive Dental (POPD)

Through years of progressive thinking, and utilizing every available avenue of literature written by board-certified veterinary and human dentists, there have been leaps and bounds made by such individuals who have dedicated their lives to setting standards and guidelines to follow when offering a non-anesthetic dental procedure.

  • The dental technician(s) must have a minimum of two years working as a registered veterinary technician or assistant. It’s imperative that they understand all elements of a veterinary practice.
  • They must have a minimum of 18 months working as a non-anesthetic dental provider.
  • They must have three veterinarian sponsors from two separate clinics. They must practice a professional approach, be educated on the importance of all aspects of dentistry, and a have solid understanding of why a POPD is a medical procedure.
  • They must be a member of the NPDA.
  • They must be CPR and first aid certified by the American Red Cross.
  • They must have an overall knowledge of and ability to recognize pathological abnormalities. It is imperative that they have the ability to perform a thorough prophylaxis in a safe manner. This requires an overall understanding of both practical skills and a comprehensive knowledge on performing a complete dental.
  • Their equipment must be sterile, clean, and organized.
  • They must be professional, courteous, and compassionate. They must uphold and practice the guidelines and code of ethics set forth by veterinarians.