Why is Dental care important?

Did you know that 4 out of every 5 dogs over the age of 3 years has some sort of periodontal disease? So it is very important to have your pet checked on a regular basis for dental disease.

Dental disease is an infection of the teeth, gums, and surrounding structures and is by far the most common major health problem of cats and dogs. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease by the time they are 3 years old.

What is Dental disease?

Dental disease begins when bacteria in the mouth forms plaque that sticks to the surface of the teeth.  The plaque will harden into dental calculus (tartar), which is firmly attached to the teeth.

 

The plaque and calculus spreads under the gum line and this Bad Bacteria  will set in motion a cycle of damage to the supporting tissues around the tooth, eventually leading to loss of the tooth. Bacteria under the gum line secrete toxins, which contribute to the tissue damage if untreated. These bacteria also stimulates the animal’s immune system and eventually causes damage to the supporting tissues of the tooth.

 

If left untreated the bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and be carried around the body. Studies in dogs have shown that periodontal disease is associated with changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys. 

What are the signs of dental disease?
Bad Breath
Excessive salivation
Dropping food or not wanting to eat
Facial swelling
Bleeding gums, swollen or red gums
Pawing at the face
Loosing Teeth


What all is included when a Dental is performed?
Your pet  is placed under anesthesia to prevent any anxiety or pain during the procedure. This allows the veterinarian and technician to thoroughly examine your pet mouth and to remove any damage teeth that may be causing pain or irritation. The risk of anesthesia is very small compared to the significant  risk of internal organ damage that occurs with untreated dental disease

After all problems have been addressed and a through examine has been performed the teeth get a good cleaning to remove all the built up tartar from the teeth as well as under the gum line.

The teeth are  polished to prevent pitting of the tooth enamel. This also helps prevent buildup of plaque and tartar.
A fluoride treatment helps to strengthen the enamel and reduces sensitivity of the teeth.
A Dental sealant (OraVet) is also applied at the end. This sealant applied to the tooth surface at the time of the dental cleaning helps to reduce the rate of bacteria colonization and plaque buildup on the teeth.

What can we do at home to prevent dental disease ?
CET Dental chews
t/d food
Brushing teeth

*** During dental health month we will be giving away all of the above with information on how to use all to maintain great dental health!

Do I need to make an appointment for my dog to have a dental cleaning?
Yes! The awesome thing about February is that during this month we offer FREE dental exams! This allows the doctors to perform any pre- anesthetic tests and examine your pet for any other underlying disorder that may need to be addressed prior to the procedure. We may also determine that antibiotics need to be prescribed before the procedure takes place.  We will then schedule your pets dental for a specific date and time.
On the day of your pets dental, they are not allowed to eat anything but they can have water up until the procedure. They can have dinner the night before but no food after midnight. The procedure will be performed in the morning and your pet will be able to go home that afternoon. An assistant will always call you and give you updates but you are more than welcome to call and check on your baby throughout the day!

DURING DENTAL HEALTH MONTH WE WILL BE TAKING $20 OFF OF EVERY DENTAL PROCEDURE!

If you have  any questions about your pets dental care needs, please give us a call or come by for your free dental exam. This is a great time to get your pets teeth clean and start the new year with fresh breath! Also its a great way to try out awesome dental products for free in the gift bags!