Veterinary Dentistry
Oral health is a fundamental aspect of overall pet health and wellbeing.
Dental Cleaning
Routine dental check-ups with your veterinarian is a vital part of preventing future dental problems.
Dental Extractions
Oral and periodontal surgery for pets is a veterinary service focusing on advanced dental care and treatment of oral diseases.
Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment (COHAT)
Our oral health exams are much more than just a teeth cleaning. We cover both the dental cleaning, radiographs, and oral surgery if needed.
Dental Cleaning
Just as with humans, getting your pet regular dental care is vital to sustaining a happy, healthy life. Far too often we see pets who have some degree of periodontal disease that could’ve easily been prevented.
What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning?
- Comprehensive oral examination
- Digital dental X-rays to assess below the gum line
- Ultrasonic scaling to remove plaque and tartar
- Polishing to smooth tooth surfaces
All procedures are performed under safe anesthesia for your pet’s comfort and safety.
Prevention Options
- The best thing you can do to keep your pet's teeth healthy is brushing them regularly. Daily brushing, if possible, is recommended. Studies have shown that if you can brush at least three times a week you are making an impact.
- Talk with your vet about additional measures they might suggest such as dental products, treats, diet changes, etc.
- Routine dental check-ups with your veterinarian is also a vital part of preventing downstream dental problems.
Why Pet Dental Care Matters
- Controls gum inflammation and reduces bad breath
- Slows progression of periodontal disease
- Eliminates bad breath
- Professional dental assessments under anesthesia allow early detection and intervention for various painful oral conditions
Did you know: 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of periodontal disease by age 2 (source).
Dental Extractions
Oral and periodontal surgery for pets is a veterinary service focusing on advanced dental care and treatment of oral diseases.
Indications that Your Pet’s Mouth Should be Checked
The following symptoms do not necessarily mean your pet needs surgery, but they do indicate that you should get your pet’s teeth checked.
- Bad breath
- Fractured or loose teeth
- Discolored teeth or teeth covered in tartar
- Abnormal chewing, drooling, or consistently dropping food from the mouth
- Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- Pain in or around the mouth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth
What Happens During Oral Surgery
Pet oral surgery typically involves the following steps:
- Physical examination and bloodwork analysis
- Anesthesia administration for the pet's safety and comfort
- Dental x-rays to assess tooth and bone condition
- Scaling to remove tartar above and below the gumline
- Tooth extractions if necessary
- Polishing of teeth to smooth the surface
- Irrigation to remove debris
What to Expect Post-Surgery
- Pet may be drowsy or have a reduced appetite for 24-48 hours post-surgery while they recover from the anesthesia
- Pain relievers and antibiotics may be prescribed
- A follow-up appointment may be necessary
- Feeding adjustments might include smaller meals initially, soft food, and/or increased water intake
- Monitor your pet for signs of complications such as persistent lack of appetite, difficulty eating hard food, excessive drooling, and swelling/bleeding around the surgical site
“Great vet care! My dog has had easy checkups as well as dental cleanings and surgery. We always feel welcome and comfortable. The vets, techs, and other staff members are knowledgeable and honest. The facility is clean and cozy. Appointments are easy to make and I have been able to come in for same day treatment as well. Rx can be delivered from their online store.”
– Previous Client