Pet Dental Care
Your Pet's Dental Examination at South Creek Animal Hospital
Your dog or cat can have dental diseases and problems just like you do. That's why regular dental check-ups and teeth cleanings at our animal hospital, combined with good dental hygiene at home, are vital for your pet's overall health and well-being.
If left untreated, dental disease can not only be painful and inhibit proper nutrition - it can also lead to serious systemic issues that may threaten your pet's health before symptoms are noticeable. To be sure you're doing all you can to protect your pet's health and keep him or her feeling great, please make regular dental examinations and cleanings a part of your pet's regular preventive care plan.
At South Creek Animal Hospital, your pet's dental appointment includes:
- Oral examination under anesthesia
- Diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease
- Tooth extractions
- Polishing
- Irrigation
Should we find any issues, such as evidence of gum or tooth erosion, gingivitis or excessive plaque buildup, we'll discuss this with you and offer treatment options for your pet. We are experienced dental practitioners and can offer a number of dental procedures and oral surgeries.
Caring for Your Pet's Teeth at Home
At home, please brush your pet's teeth regularly and check for signs of problems. Brushing your pet's teeth is the single most important way to maintain your companion's good oral health. If performed regularly, brushing your pet's teeth dramatically decreases the incidence of gingivitis and can increase the interval between teeth cleaning appointments.
If you are unsure of how to brush your pet's teeth, please ask a member of the team at South Creek Animal Hospital for instructions. We are happy to help.
Signs of Pet Dental Problems
Symptoms of dental disease include:
- Bad breath (one of the first signs of dental disease)
- A yellowish-brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line
- Red and swollen gums
- Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth or gums are touched
- Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
- Loose or missing teeth
If your pet is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please call South Creek Animal Hospital today for an appointment. Your pet does not need to spend any more time experiencing oral discomfort.