Dental

Dental health is a critical piece in the puzzle of overall health for your pet.

Dental problems can both cause and be the effect of various health issues that require medical attention. It’s extremely important that you stay on top of your pet’s dental care so your veterinarian can check for early signs of problems, all while keeping your pet’s mouth as healthy as possible. It’s recommended that your pet’s teeth and gums be checked out by a professional at least once per year.

Much like dental care for humans, veterinary dentistry includes teeth cleaning and extractions when necessary. The process will start with a visual exam, potentially followed by dental radiographs if necessary. A thorough dental cleaning and gum check will be performed while the animal is under anesthesia, and plaque and tartar will be removed from all affected teeth.

Some signs that your pet might need dental attention include:

• Bad breath
• Observably broken or loose teeth
• Discolored teeth
• Bleeding or swelling in the mouth
• Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
• Unusual chewing, dropping of food from the mouth, or drooling