Dental Health

The most common complaint of pet owners is their pets’ breath. A disagreeable odor may be the first sign that gum disease is present. Other signs an owner may notice are red swollen gums, tarter (a yellow or brown accumulation on the tooth surface) or loose teeth. Periodontal disease is the most common ailment of small animals. Gum problems begin when bacteria accumulates at the gum line around the tooth. Unless brushed away daily, these bacteria can destroy tooth-supporting bone, cause bleeding, and if left untreated, cause tooth loss.

The veterinary oral examination will begin with a complete visual examination of the face, mouth and each tooth. Frequently, pets’ mouths have several different problems that need care. We will use a dental chart, similar to the one used by human dentists, to identify and document such dental problems.

A more detailed exam then follows. Unfortunately, cats and dogs cannot point to where it hurts, so in order to determine the proper treatment plan, other tests are usually necessary. Sedation and anesthesia are essential to adequately evaluate the oral condition.

Anesthesia allows us to thoroughly examine each tooth individually. Modern veterinary medicine offers a wide array of medications and monitoring equipment to increase safety of anesthesia.

Next, we examine with a periodontal probe to measure gum pocket depths around each tooth. If the probe depth is greater then four millimeters, periodontal disease is present, requiring additional care to save the tooth. Unfortunately, by the time some pets are presented for dental care, it is too late to save all the teeth, necessitating some extractions. Preventative care and periodic check-ups should hinder the loss of additional teeth.

We will also take whole mouth x-rays of the teeth to check for any abnormalities below the gum line. We use a special dental x-ray machine, similar to the one used in human dentistry. Many decisions are based on x-ray findings. Once the Doctor reviews the radiographs she will make an appropriate treatment plan.

Once we have a treatment plan, the cleaning can begin. 

Ultrasonic scaling during a dental diagnostic procedure	Hand scaling of teeth during a dental diagnostic procedure

One of our licensed Veterinary Nurses thoroughly cleans all surfaces of the teeth, above and below the gum line. This is accomplished with an ultrasonic cleaner and by hand scaling.

After the tooth is cleaned of bacteria, calculus, and tarter we polish out any nicks or scratches to the enamel. All teeth are then treated to a fluoride treatment, to strengthen the surface of the tooth and to help bacterial from reattaching to the tooth.

Your pet may be required to return in approximately 2 weeks for further dental procedures, like extractions or oral surgery. The reason that we may recommend to bring your pet back is so that there is a shorter anesthetic time and so he/she can begin the appropriate antibiotic and pain medication before the procedure.

Dogs and cats do not have to suffer the pain and discomfort of untreated broken, loose teeth, or infected gums. With the help of thorough examinations, x-rays, dental care and daily brushing, your pet can have healthy teeth and keep smiling.