How to Avoid Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats
Many pet owners think dental care is not necessary and that nature does a fine job of deterring any dental disease in dogs and cats. Not true. Just like us, your dog or cat needs regular dental care to avoid problems down the road. Here at Hamilton Road Animal Hospital, we make sure all our patients have strong teeth and healthy mouths so they can live long, happy and healthy lives.
Why is Pet Dental Care Necessary?
If you think about your teeth, you keep them clean with daily brushing and regular visits to the dentist. You brush daily to remove particles and residue left there from food. The same is true with your dog. Without care and cleaning, many pet dental problems can ensue including gingivitis, periodontal disease and oral infections. Other problems include abscesses and broken or loose teeth, all of which can be treated at Hamilton Road Animal Hospital.
How Do I Know if My Dog Needs Immediate Dental Care?
As you know, dental problems can be painful and the same is true for your pet. If you see any of the following signs, please call our office promptly:
- Pawing at the mouth
- Drooling
- Refusing to eat
- Loose or missing teeth
- Red, bleeding gums
Hamilton Road Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital which means we treat most dental problems right here in our facility. Specifically, we perform oral examinations, teeth cleaning under general anesthesia, tooth extractions and treat oral infections.
What Are the Steps to Ensure Good Pet Dental Care?
The first step in a dog Dental care program is for you to make a dentistry appointment where we’ll thoroughly examine your pet’s mouth and teeth. The next step is to schedule a Dental cleaning. We use a safe anesthesia so your pet is comfortable while we scale the plaque and tartar off the teeth from below the gum line, a preventive procedure to prevent gingivitis or periodontal disease. If we find anything that needs further treatment after the Dental cleaning, we will then contact you to make recommendations and set up a treatment plan.
For more information about Hamilton Road Animal Hospital, give us a call today at 614-239-0027