Pet Dental Health

•  80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three.
• Oral disease is the most frequently diagnosed health problem in pets.
  

• Persistent bad breath.
• Yellow brown crust or tartar around the gum line.
• Red, bleeding or receded gums.
• Difficulty eating.
• Loose teeth.

• Bad breath in pets is most often caused by bacteria which are responsible for a gum infection.
• Gum disease can cause pets pain and serious dental problems later in life.
  

• We recommend daily brushing with a tooth paste specifically formulated for pets.
• This process must be started early to ensure your pet will accept brushing!
• Another option is a newly available gel and liquid formulation controls tarter and gum disease without brushing. Our receptionists will be happy to discuss these remarkable products with you!
  

• Studies have shown that hard kibble is better at keeping plaque from accumulating on the teeth.
• A Special Food is available which is proven to help reduce plaque and tartar. A member of our Health Care Team can provide you with more information.

• Many pets have such serious gingivitis, tartar and periodontal disease that they can only be improved by a professional dental exam, scale & polish.
• Under a general anesthetic, we thoroughly clean away the stain and tartar from above and below the gum line.
• This restores your pets teeth to a clean and healthful condition, and remove the bacteria causing the infection.

• Absolutely! The harmful bacteria involved in periodontal disease are at a high risk to enter the blood stream, causing distant infection.
• Premature heart, liver and kidney failure have been associated with rotten teeth.
  

A veterinarian should evaluate your pet’s dental health at least once a year. We can recommend and demonstrate preventative measures you can begin at home. Our wellness programs emphasize and explain how you can avoid costly dental procedures with your pet in the future.

If you suspect your pet is suffering from dental disease, contact us immediately. When your pet is suffering, prompt attention is critical!