After your pet eats, food particles stick between their teeth, attracting bacteria that form plaque. If not cleaned, plaque hardens into tartar, causing gum inflammation and dental disease. This can lead to:
- Painful, bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Tooth root abscesses
- Oro-nasal fistulas (holes between the mouth and nose)
- Oral tumors
- Organ damage from bacteria spreading through the bloodstream
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Discolored teeth
- Red, swollen gums
- Blood on chew toys
- Eating on one side or dropping food
- Nasal or eye discharge
- Facial swelling
- Oral exam: Check for signs of dental disease.
- Blood work: Ensure your pet can safely undergo anesthesia.
- Anesthesia: Keep your pet calm and still for thorough cleaning.
- Dental X-rays: Examine below the gumline.
- Teeth scaling: Remove plaque and tartar.
- Polishing: Smooth teeth to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Periodontal probing: Check for deep pockets around teeth.
- Extractions: Remove severely damaged teeth if necessary.
- Antibiotics: Prescribe if there’s extensive dental disease.
After your pet eats, food particles stick between their teeth, attracting bacteria that form plaque. If not cleaned, plaque hardens into tartar, causing gum inflammation and dental disease. This can lead to:
- Painful, bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Tooth root abscesses
- Oro-nasal fistulas (holes between the mouth and nose)
- Oral tumors
- Organ damage from bacteria spreading through the bloodstream
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Discolored teeth
- Red, swollen gums
- Blood on chew toys
- Eating on one side or dropping food
- Nasal or eye discharge
- Facial swelling
- Oral exam: Check for signs of dental disease.
- Blood work: Ensure your pet can safely undergo anesthesia.
- Anesthesia: Keep your pet calm and still for thorough cleaning.
- Dental X-rays: Examine below the gumline.
- Teeth scaling: Remove plaque and tartar.
- Polishing: Smooth teeth to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Periodontal probing: Check for deep pockets around teeth.
- Extractions: Remove severely damaged teeth if necessary.
- Antibiotics: Prescribe if there’s extensive dental disease.
We recommend your pet having an oral exam once yearly. We also recommend that you establish an at home routine that includes daily brushing, dental chews, water additives or a dental diet.
