Dental Care

 

Have you smelled your pets breath lately?  How do you think your teeth would look and smell if you NEVER brushed your teeth? Not a pretty thought.  Unless you provide regular dental care for your pet, dental disease is a reality.

It can be difficult to keep your pet’s teeth clean, so oral health problems are very common.  Research shows that by the age of 2, approximately 70% of cats and 80% of dogs has dental disease.  It all begins with a buildup of sticky plaque that hardens to form tartar.  Plaque and tartar harbor bacteria which can lead to gum infection, recession, and infection.  If not removed, periodontal disease may develop.

Periodontal disease is a common problem seen by veterinarians.  Early signs include red, bleeding gums, bad breath, and tooth loss.  Further progression can lead to bigger problems, like heart problems, weight loss, kidney infections, and generalized infections.

Stages of Dental Disease

 

Regular dental cleanings can be one of the best ways to keep your pets mouth healthy.  Dental cleanings are performed while your pet is under anesthesia to get the best examination and cleaning done.  Using an ultrasonic scalar, the teeth are cleaned on the surface and under the gum line.  The teeth are then polished to keep the surface smooth and prevent quick plaque buildup.

 

Symptoms of Dental/Oral Health Problems

·         Persistent bad breath

·         Sensitivity around the mouth

·         Difficulty eating or chewing

·         Dribbling water or food

·         Pawing at the mouth

·         Inflamed (red), bleeding, or receding gums

·         Plaque/tartar build-up

·         Facial swelling

·         Loose, broken, or missing teeth

·         Retained baby teeth

 

If you are noticing any of the above symptoms please call out office today.  Our doctors can let you know if it’s time for your pet’s dental cleaning.

 

Every Day Dental Care for Your Pet 

 

To develop good habits, proper dental care should start when your pet is very young.

  • Brush your pet's teeth daily either with a finger brush or toothbrush and a pet friendly toothpaste.

  • Feed your pet dry food or dental health diet like Hill's Prescription T/D.

  • There are a variety of dental treats that can help keep your pet's teeth/gums healthy.

  • Using OraVet chews daily can help keep your pets breath freash and limit tartar build on the teeth.

  • (for more informtation please visit our OraVet page.)

  (Please look for the VOHC Accepted logo on the treats. Many treats say they are for oral health and can be misleading.)