I took Bogie to get it done over the summer because has was having significant build up on ONE tooth, and brushing wasn't cutting it. I had my choice of which anesthetic to chose, and I chose the more expensive one that has less side effects. I took him to the vet first thing in the morning, without being fed breakfast, but he could eat anythign the night before. When I got home, he was acting perfectly normal, just hungry. He scarfed down his food and went on with his evening as if nothing at happened. And the vet gave me a before and after picture of his mouth! Once it was removed, I brushed his teeth more often, concentrating on the one side of his mouth, and he hasn't had severe build up since. So once the tartar is gone, start brushing!