The Importance of Teeth Cleaning for Pets
Our team at Hamilton Road Animal Hospital in Columbus wants you to know that keeping your pet’s teeth clean is not only important for their oral hygiene but the overall health of your pet. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean can extend the life of their teeth and prevent dangerous bacteria from entering your pet’s bloodstream and affecting the vital organs. Let’s take a look at pet dental care and the role it plays in your pet’s health.
What is Involved in a Dental Cleaning?
Much like when you visit your dentist for a routine exam, a professional dental cleaning includes comprehensive scaling of the teeth, polishing of the teeth, and a careful inspection of the mouth, teeth, and gums. Pets will not let people tamper with their mouths using water and metal tools. That is why general anesthesia is needed for performing a proper oral exam and dental cleaning.
What to Expect
Think of a dental exam as similar to a trip to the human dentist. A veterinarian will exam the teeth and gums and perform some poking, prodding, and cleaning to remove any plaque and tartar build-up. During the dental exam, our veterinarian will check for gum disease, infections, missing teeth, and untreated broken teeth.
When a pet dental exam is about to begin, an anesthetic drug is used, causing the pet to fall asleep. A breathing tube is then placed through the pet's mouth into the trachea. This tube ensures an unobstructed airway during the procedure through which anesthetic and oxygen are delivered. The tube also prevents bacteria and liquids from entering the pet’s airway and lungs.
Find Quality Pet Dental Care in Columbus, OH
Just like people, pets need oral care. However, while some people take their teeth cleaning seriously and have it as a regular routine, many pets go through years of plaque-infested teeth without anyone noticing. You can use veterinarian-approved dental care products at home between visits either with pet toothpaste or special treats designed to taste great and help prevent dental issues. Even with at-home dental care, we still recommend a dental check-up from a veterinarian at least once per year. If your pet needs a check-up, call our team at Hamilton Road Animal Hospital today at (614) 239-0027 to schedule an appointment with one of our veterinarians.