Dental disease is a serious problem in pets. Gum inflammation is uncomfortable and leads to tooth loss, and your pet can even have organ damage if dental disease is left untreated. Dental disease is the number one illness in both dogs and cats, but it can be prevented and treated. Dr. Stephanie will check your pet’s teeth and gums during every wellness exam, and she will let you know when a cleaning is needed. The cleaning will include:
- A complete oral exam
- Bloodwork before anesthesia is given to your pet to identify any risks if authorized
- IV Fluids, general anesthesia and electronic monitoring during the procedure
- A thorough teeth cleaning and polishing
- Peace of mind knowing that you are taking care of your pet’s dental care and preventing future illnesses
The dangers of periodontal disease
Periodontal disease, sometimes called gum disease, is an infection caused by bacteria in plaque. The first signs of periodontal disease are discolored teeth. This is the plaque buildup on the teeth. Over time, this plaque turns into tartar, which digs into the gums. When this happens, bacteria become trapped and causes an infection. Over time, periodontal disease leads to tooth loss and pain. The infection can even enter the bloodstream and damage other organs in the pet.
Signs of poor dental health in your pet may include:
- Bad breath
- Stained or discolored teeth
- Bleeding, swollen or irritated gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Swelling under the eyes
- Visible tartar on the teeth
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty eating
- Pawing at the mouth or teeth
- Excessive saliva production
Annual cleanings, prevention and home care
Periodontal disease often causes irreversible damage, but it can be halted by using antibiotics and through regular cleanings. We recommend preventing the disease before it has time to start, and we can show you how to take care of your pet’s teeth at home. We recommend daily brushing with a soft brush, and our technicians are happy to show you how. The earlier you begin home teeth care, the more your animal will learn to cooperate with you.
Annual cleanings and examinations are typically recommended. During the appointment, we will perform a thorough cleaning with the pet under anesthesia. It’s a proactive procedure to remove plaque and tartar and maintain the healthiest conditions in the pet’s mouth. When a pet grows older or becomes ill, he or she may require more frequent cleanings than once a year. Smaller breeds of dogs tend to be bothered more by dental disease.
Diets for the best dental health
Dry food is typically better for tooth health than canned food. There are some specifically formulated foods that are effective in helping you take care of your pet’s teeth. Ask us for recommendations.
Dealing with broken teeth
Broken teeth are very uncomfortable in humans, and even more so in pets who can’t tell you what hurts. Get immediate treatment for the best results when you notice that a pet has a broken tooth. It can lead to loss of other teeth when left untreated.
The expense of dental cleanings
Dental cleanings may seem like an added expense for pet owners, but in reality, they’re actually cost-effective in the long run of your pet’s health. When dental problems are caught early, they are more easily treated. When neglected, they turn into serious health problems which are expensive to treat.