Pet Health Begins with Healthy Teeth
Just like us, pets need effective dental hygiene to keep their teeth and gums in good condition, and regular dental care can help your pet stay healthy and happy.
It’s very common for pets to develop plaque, tartar, and gingivitis. These conditions can lead to bad breath, tooth loss, and severe pain that can affect your pet's ability to eat. Several symptoms may mean your pet might have a dental issue.
If you notice any of these signs, mention them to your veterinarian:
- Stinky breath
- Reluctance to eat
- Chattering of the teeth
- Drooling
- Facial swelling
- Redness on the gums
Dogs that are heavy chewers or chew hard items such as coconuts are at higher risk for cracked teeth and jaw issues. If you suspect your dog may have a cracked tooth or jaw problem reach out to our veterinary team right away.
Preventing Serious Illness with Good Dental Hygiene
Dental care prevents serious health concerns, such as periodontal disease. This type of infection is caused by the buildup of bacteria on the teeth. As it advances, it can cause pain and possible tooth loss. Bacterial infections can also spread to other parts of your pet’s body, like the heart and kidneys, which can have severe and potentially life-threatening consequences.
At your pet’s regular wellness checkup, your veterinarian will check your pet’s teeth and gums for any signs of dental disease. Based on your pet’s tartar score, we can recommend whether professional cleaning is needed. However, many pets over the age of four years old often benefit from veterinary dental cleanings as often as every six months.
Dental packages can be added to wellness plans to spread the cost of a dental out over 12 months.
What Happens During a Cleaning
During the anesthetic dental cleaning, our veterinary team will take dental X-rays, check for any broken teeth or abscesses, clean with an ultrasonic scaler, polish the teeth, and assess the overall health of your pet’s mouth. A long-acting sealant can be applied if requested to extend the time between cleanings.