PET DENTAL CARE
By Cristina Anzures
Dental disease in dogs and cats is very common, and very dangerous. Left untreated, it can lead to major problems like heart disease and kidney failure. Regular dental care is critical to your pet’s health, but they can’t do it alone.
Your pet’s teeth should be checked at least once a year by your veterinarian for early signs of a problem and to keep your pet’s mouth healthy.
Bad breath, Broken or loose teeth, Extra teeth or retained baby teeth, Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar, Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth, Reduced appetite or refusal to eat, Pain in or around the mouth, Bleeding from the mouth, Swelling in the areas surrounding the mouth, are signs of dental disease, and should be addressed and treated.
Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs and cats – by the time your pet is 3 years old, he or she will very likely have some early evidence of periodontal disease, which will worsen as your pet grows older if effective preventive measures aren’t taken.
The American Veterinary Dental College does not recommend dental cleanings without anesthesia because they do not allow cleaning or inspection below the gum line, where most dental disease occurs, and can result in injury to the pet or the person performing the procedure.
Anzer Animal Hospital has the safest anesthesia procedures and is one of the few practices in the area with digital dental x rays.
When extractions are needed, Anzer Animal Hospital will use dental digital x rays to have an accurate diagnosis, and will provide proper pain management. Schedule your pet’s dental appointment today: 561-619-7600