Dentistry

A healthy mouth plays an important role in a healthy pet!  Buildup of tartar leads to infection and pain.  Dental disease is one of the leading causes of chronic pain in our pets.  Bacteria in the mouth can spread via the blood stream and can cause disease in the liver, kidneys and heart.  Cats and dogs require regular dental care just like humans do.  The first step to improving your pets oral hygiene is a visit to the veterinarian.  Your veterinarian will perform a thorough exam on your pet, including their mouth and will help you to decide whether a dental cleaning would benefit your pet.  Regular dental cleanings will help to prevent periodontal disease (infection below the gums) that require removal of infected and painful teeth.  In an animal with a healthy mouth, your veterinary team can educate you on preventative care to keep your pets mouth as healthy as possible.

 Veterinary dentistry is performed under full anesthetic, for the safety of your pet.  A more thorough exam of the mouth is possible while under anesthesia- examining for loose or missing teeth, evidence of periodontal disease, gum recession or infection, masses or tumors in the mouth or tongue and a variety of other oral diseases that can affect your pet.  After a careful exam, all teeth are cleaned with a high-speed ultrasonic scaler, removing all tartar and cleaning underneath the gum line.  Any teeth that are unhealthy are then removed, followed by polishing all remaining teeth before your pet is woken up.

Signs of dental disease you may notice include:

- buildup of yellow/grey debris on teeth (tartar)

- redness along the gum line (gingivitis)

- bad breath

- drooling or bleeding from the mouth

- dropping food while eating

- subtle changes in behaviour like increased sleeping, less interest in playing, changes in eating or chewing habits and depression

Call to book an exam today to discuss your pet's oral health!