Dentistry

Overview

Studies show that 50% of all dogs and cats have some form of periodontal disease. That number jumps to 80% in pets that are 3 years of age or older. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause infection, pain, and tooth loss over time. It can also lead to serious health problems like microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys. Because of this, we recommend an annual veterinary dental healthcare examination for all pets.

Why do pets need dental care?

Many health problems start in the mouth. Plaque, tartar, periodontal disease, and infected teeth serve as a source of inflammation and infection for the rest of the body.

Dental disease is one of the most common problems that we see in dogs and cats. It can cause drooling, reluctance to eat, swelling, bad breath, redness of the gums, loose teeth and tooth discoloration.

When should I seek dental care for my pet?

Dental issues and dental related diseases can easily be prevented by visiting our veterinarians regularly for dental examinations and cleanings. We take a comprehensive approach to dental care including dental health assessment, treatment, and prevention.

Teeth Exams, Cleaning and Polishing

Dog and cat dental cleanings are very similar to human dental cleanings, except that we are required to use anesthesia to properly and safely examine and clean the teeth. After the cleaning, our veterinarians perform a thorough oral exam and check for signs of disease like gum loss, root exposure, or pockets around the root.

Also similar to human dentistry, we do full mouth radiographs (x-rays) of your pet. This allows our veterinarians to be able to evaluate the roots of your pet's teeth as well as any disease or abnormalities that are located below the gum line and not visible on examination alone.

Tooth Extractions

We make every effort to save teeth that we feel have a chance to be successfully treated. In many circumstances, however, periodontal disease is so advanced that treatment without extraction is unsuccessful. We only extract teeth that in the doctor's opinion are beyond saving.

Minor Oral Surgery

Many teeth require oral surgery to safely remove each individual root. We have extensive training and experience to perform these procedures properly. Pain relief treatments are administered in clinic and provided for in-home aftercare.

Supporting Dental Health at Home

Professional dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining your pet's oral health, but good dental care doesn't stop when your pet leaves the hospital. Our team will provide personalized recommendations for at-home dental care based on your pet's needs and lifestyle.

These recommendations may include:

• Tooth brushing techniques and products

• Veterinary-recommended dental chews and treats

• Prescription dental diets when appropriate

• Water additives and oral care products

• Products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)

By combining routine veterinary dental care with a consistent home dental care routine, you can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, support healthy gums, and improve your pet's overall health and comfort.

Supporting Lifelong Health

A healthy mouth contributes to a healthier pet. Through routine dental evaluations, professional cleanings, and attentive home care, we can help prevent painful dental disease and improve your pet's overall quality of life...