ORAL & DENTAL CARE:
Why is regular dental care important for cats and dogs?
Dental problems in cats or dogs can be related to a variety of other health problems. Bacteria from the mouth can travel to other parts of your pet's system, and can develop into problems. Without regular cleaning, pets are also susceptible to periodontal (gum) disease. Regular (annual) dental cleaning will allow the vet to identify early signs of a problem and prevent it from becoming serious.
Signs of Dental Disease
Common symptoms indicating dental problems include:
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Bad breath
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Loose or broken teeth
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Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
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Teeth with discoloration or tartar buildup
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Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth
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Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
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Pain or swelling in or around the mouth
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Bleeding from the mouth
If your dog or cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, it's best to bring him or her in to see one of our vets.
Preventative Care:
Your pet should visit the veterinarian every year for an oral health checkup. The process begins with an examination of your pet’s mouth, overall health exam by the veterinarian, and bloodwork to evaluate the function of your pets organs. Since most dental disease in animals occurs below the gum line, where you can’t see it, a thorough dental cleaning and evaluation must be performed under anesthesia. X-rays are required to evaluate the health of the jaw and the tooth roots.
The dental cleaning will consist of ultrasonic scaling (to remove dental plaque and tartar) and polishing, much like the process of your own dental cleanings.