Dental Care
Dental Care
Importance of Dental Hygiene for Pets
Just like humans, dental care is crucial for the overall health and well-being of pets. Dental hygiene plays a significant role in preventing:
Gum Disease:
Periodontal disease is one of the most common health problems in pets and can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even systemic health issues if left untreated.
Bad Breath:
Persistent bad breath often indicates dental problems.
Organ Damage:
Bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Regular dental care, both at home and through professional veterinary dental cleanings, can help maintain your pet’s oral health and overall quality of life.
How Dental Cleanings Work
Dental Cleaning Under Anesthesia
For a thorough dental cleaning, your pet will need to be under anesthesia to ensure safety and allow for a comprehensive examination and treatment. Here’s how the process typically works:
Pre-Anesthetic Examination:
Your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam and may recommend blood tests to assess your pet's overall health and suitability for anesthesia.
Anesthesia Induction:
Once your pet is cleared for anesthesia, they will receive a sedative to relax and then a general anesthetic to induce unconsciousness. Throughout the procedure, your pet's vital signs will be monitored closely.
Dental Examination and Cleaning:
Scaling:
Tartar and plaque are removed from the teeth using specialized dental tools.
Polishing:
The teeth are polished to smooth the surface and reduce the adherence of plaque.
Probing and X-rays:
Your veterinarian may probe around the teeth and take X-rays to assess the health of the teeth and roots.
Treatment:
If any dental issues are found (e.g., loose teeth, cavities, gum disease), they can be treated during the cleaning.
Recovery:
After the cleaning, your pet will be carefully monitored as they recover from anesthesia. They may be a bit groggy initially but should return to normal within a few hours.
Resources for Pet Dental Care
At-Home Dental Care:
Brushing: Regular brushing with pet-safe toothpaste is the gold standard for preventing dental disease.
Dental Chews and Toys:
These can help reduce plaque buildup and freshen breath.
Diet:
Certain diets and treats are formulated to promote dental health.
Signs of Dental Problems:
Bad Breath
Difficulty Eating
Excessive Drooling
Pawing at the Mouth
Additional Information:
Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC): Offers resources and information about pet dental health. Check out their website at https://vohc.org/
