Sounds like you're going about it the right way (well, with the exception of wimping out on brushing.

) Glad you're getting a checkup first.
My vet says healthy gums and clean teeth are worth the small risk of putting them under. Gum disease can lead to much worse problems as they age, so keep them clean and they're likely to be healthier in the long run.
__________________
Mike ~ Doting Dad to Jillie, Harper, Molly, Cooper, Eddie (RIP), Lucy (RIP), Rusty (RIP) and Jack (RIP).
Check us out on YouTube