Pet Dental Care
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Pets
COHAT
Dental care is one of the most commonly neglected areas of pet care. Not surprisingly, then, the American Veterinary Dental Society estimates that more than 70% of dogs and cats show signs of oral disease by the time they reach age 3. Though dogs are at a slightly higher risk for dental disease than cats, the fact remains that proper dental care can add up to 5 years to the life of your pet.
Some of the clinical symptoms of periodontal disease that your pet may display include:
- Pawing at the mouth/face rubbing
- Facial swelling
- Dropping food
- Bad breath
- Sneezing
- Poor appetite/weight loss
- Jaw opening reflex (“chattering” of the lower jaw)
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Resenting touch or manipulation of the head
- Oral bleeding
- Poor grooming (dull and matted coat in cats)
Why Pet Dental Care Is Important
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats. Regular dental care, including dental procedures under anesthesia, will help prevent and slow periodontal disease progression.
Dental Radiographs
Other than bad breath, clinical signs of periodontal disease are difficult for owners to identify as they start below the gumline. Dental radiographs play a critical role in diagnosing early periodontal disease.
Subgingival Cleaning
Periodontal disease occurs as plaque and bacteria spread below the gumline. During a dental procedure, we clean the under the gumline to remove plaque and bacteria and slow the progression of periodontal disease.
Veterinary Services
Below are all of the veterinary services we offer at West Concord Animal Clinic. If you have any questions regarding our services, please feel free to call us.