Imagine what your teeth would look like if you never brushed them!
Just like in humans, without proper dental care your pet can develop serious periodontal disease. Periodontal disease damages the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. This leads to pain, loose teeth and infection. In the case of a serious infection, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and damage the kidneys, liver, lungs and heart.
Signs that your pet may be suffering from periodontal disease:
- Decreased appetite, weight loss, muscle loss
- Decreased energy
- Difficulty chewing
- Drooling
- Pawing at their face or other signs of pain
- Bad breath
- Behavioural changes such as increased aggression or irritability
- Swollen gums, bleeding gums, tartar on the teeth
- Facial swelling or muscle wasting in the face
- Discharge from the nose or eyes
- Yellow or brown build up (tartar) on the teeth
How can you treat and prevent dental disease in your pets?
You should have your veterinarian examine your pet’s mouth on a regular basis. Regular dental cleanings at our hospital remove tartar and plaque, and treat diseased teeth and gums. Dental home care is also very important. Our staff can show you how to brush your pet’s teeth, which is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. If your pet will not tolerate brushing, we can also recommend other products such as water additives, mouth rinses, dental chews and dental diets.
Before and After, a dramatic difference!
What is involved when you bring your pet to us for a dental cleaning?
- A thorough physical examination and dental treatment plan.
- Digital dental x-rays of the whole mouth to properly assess the health of the roots and the tissues surrounding the teeth.
- General anesthetic, and pain control, to ensure patient safety and comfort.
- Monitoring of your pet’s vital signs while under anesthetic.
- Scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line.
- Polishing to smooth and protect the tooth enamel.
- Treatment of the diseased teeth and gums.
- Recommendations for dental home care.
- Before & After photos of your pet’s mouth.