Dental Health  
   
 
 
Dental Health      

 

Believe it or not, by the age of 3 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease. Left untreated, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and infect the liver, kidneys and the heart. Not only can it be extremely painful for your pet, it can be life threatening.

Dental care for your pet should start as soon as possible. Basically it is never to late to start! 

Begin first by having your veterinarian perform a routine oral examination. This can be done routinely during your pet's yearly physical examination. 

A regular dental care regimen at home should be practiced (click HERE for directions on how to brush your pet's teeth). It is important to know that toothpaste made for humans should not be used on your pet. There are toothpastes specially formulated for your pet. Ask your veterinarian for their recommendation.

   

 

Signs of Periodontal Disease

  • yellow brownish colored teeth
  • swollen, red, bleeding gums
  • persistent bad teeth
  • loose or broken teeth
  • unusual growth in mouth
  • reluctance to play with chew toys
  • yellow-brown crust of tartar at gum line
  • receded / eroded gums
       

Dental cleanings done by your veterinarian should be done when needed. A dental cleaning is a procedure that requires your pet to be under sedation. While under sedation, your pet's teeth are examined, scaled, cleansed and treated with fluoride. Much like your dental hygienist does! 

Extractions are done only when necessary. It is considered necessary when the tooth is infected or poses a threat to the health of your pet. It is normal for pets to require extractions as they get older, especially if a dental regimen is not practiced at home.

Prices on dentals can range depending on the size of your pet to the condition of their teeth. Please ask your veterinarian for a price quote on a dental for your pet.

 

  

 
Before Dental Cleaning
 
After Dntal Cleaning