ORAL HEALTH

Dental care of dogs and cats is one of the most commonly overlooked areas of pet health care. A recent American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) study showed that approximately two-thirds of pet owners do not provide the at home dental care that is recommended by veterinarians.

Your pet’s bad breath and gum problems not only make it hard for them to eat, but can lead to more serious health problems. For example, bacteria associated with tarter/plaque can cause inflammation of the gums, creating an entry point for bacteria to get into the bloodstream. This can lead to an overall infection of the blood. Periodontal disease can also lead to liver, kidney and heart problems. Routine dental examinations and cleanings can help avert the problem before it starts.

Common signs of oral disease include: 

• Tartar buildup
• Red and swollen gums
• Bad breath
• Changes in eating or chewing habits
• Pawing at the face
• Generalized depression. 

We recommend annual anesthetic dental cleaning for pets over 3 years old. We use modern and safe ultrasonic equipment; each tooth is thoroughly cleaned above and below the gum line. Dental technicians polish the teeth to create a smooth, lustrous surface more resistant to plaque buildup.