Learn Why Pet Dental Care Leads to Longer Life & Health
Many pet owners believe that animals clean their own teeth naturally by chewing on bones, sticks, or other items in nature. While it may be true that animals in the wild chew to clean their teeth, they do not avoid oral diseases or the systemic infections that follow. In addition, animals in the wild are not eating processed foods that deposit plaque on the teeth—more likely they are eating entire rodents and other small prey, bones included. As chewing and tearing apart a kill can scrape teeth and massage gums, these animals suffer from broken teeth and a variety of problems in the mouth that contribute to illness and early death.
Domestic pets enjoy veterinary care that includes regular oral exams and teeth cleaning, preventive measures that allow for disease prevention and an extended life. Pets who do not receive dental care often suffer from gum disease as early as age 3. This leads to more serious health problems including heart, lung, and kidney disease. Preventing these problems is as simple as a visit to our office, the first step in providing your pets with proper dental care and a healthier life.
Step One: The Exam
Veterinary dental care begins at the first wellness visit. We look for problems related to the baby teeth, missing or extra teeth, swelling, and oral development. In adult pets, we look for developmental anomalies, plaque and tartar, periodontal disease, and oral tumors.
While Dr. Bob can perform a basic oral examination on patients that are awake, a short-lasting anesthetic is required in order to provide a complete and thorough examination and dental cleaning. This anesthesia is for your pet’s safety and to prevent the trauma associated with the use of the dental instruments.
Step Two: Teeth Cleaning
Cleaning the teeth begins with a pre-anesthetic exam, to ensure your pet’s safety in undergoing anesthesia. This typically includes blood and urine tests, dental X-rays, and possibly an EKG to check for hidden health concerns.
During anesthesia, we closely monitor your pet’s vital signs and continue this close monitoring until the procedure is completed and the patient is alert and recovered.
To remove plaque and tarter and to polish the teeth, Plum Street Pet Clinic uses the advanced technology of ultrasonic dental cleaning equipment. We may also apply fluoride or tooth sealant to protect and strengthen teeth.
This routine procedure offers your pet multiple health advantages, including fresh breath and a sparkling smile!
For your convenience, we offer this online consent form for dental cleaning procedures or for more extensive dental work. Complete and submit the following form prior to your pet’s dental procedure to avoid delays at check-in.
Download Dental Care Consent FormStep Three: Home Dental Care
Regular cleaning of your pet’s teeth is an important step to a strong dental care program. Your friends at Plum Street Pet Clinic are pleased to offer assistance to pet owners in developing a home dental care regime for their pets.
Dr. Bob can advise you on teeth cleaning techniques, chew toys and treats, oral care products for pets, and a proper nutritional diet.
Discuss your pet dental care questions and concerns at your next visit or call Plum Street Pet Clinic today.
