Dental Health

The Importance of Dental Care in Our Pets

We offer a variety of dental services ranging from preventive care to treatment of dental diseases, including dental cleanings. Increased awareness of the need for proper dental care is always a concern when it comes to pets.

Oral disease can include periodontitis, broken teeth and resorptive lesions. Symptoms of periodontal disease include build-up of tartar along the gum line, inflamed gums and persistent bad breath. In dogs, broken teeth are a common problem. Resorptive lesions (feline cavities) are the most common tooth disease in domestic cats. Studies show that about 28 percent of domestic cats develop at least one of these painful lesions during their lifetime.

Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem for pets. An astounding 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS).

The inflammation and infection associated with periodontal disease may damage other organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys, or lead to other serious health problems. A recent paper published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that there were significant associations detected between the severity of periodontal disease and the subsequent risk of cardiovascular-related conditions.

The first step in preventing oral disease is a routine physical examination including a dental exam. Pet owners should practice a regular dental care regimen at home, which may include brushing the pet’s teeth with specially formulated toothpaste. Schedule regular follow-up care with us and ask about specially formulated foods with proven benefits in plaque and tartar removal.

Dental Care For Your Pet – Three Steps to Success

Your pet needs dental care – regular, professional care from your veterinarian, as well as care at home from you. We recommend that pet owners follow three basic steps:

ONE:  Take your pet to the veterinarian for a dental exam. Don’t wait for his annual checkup if you suspect a problem.

TWO:  Begin a dental care regimen at home. Your veterinarian can suggest steps that may include brushing your pet’s teeth. One of the most convenient and effective ways to combat oral disease is feeding specially formulated foods proven effective in combating plaque and tartar buildup. The Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council appears on products that meet defined standards for plaque and tartar control in dogs and cats. For further information on the VOHC or their product standards, visit www.vohc.org.

THREE:  Schedule regular veterinary checkups. These are essential in helping your veterinarian monitor the progress of your pet’s dental health routine. Your veterinary health care team can help you schedule the appropriate visits.

(Some excerpts taken from www.petdental.com)