How Salish Does Dentals
Periodontal disease, fractured teeth, and a range of other oral health conditions are frequently observed in both dogs and cats. These issues, if left untreated, can significantly impact your pet's overall health and quality of life. At Salish Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to educating pet owners on effective strategies for the prevention, early detection, and appropriate treatment of dental diseases.
To support this commitment, we offer comprehensive veterinary dental services within our fully equipped dental suite. Salish Veterinary Hospital has advanced diagnostic tools such as a digital dental radiography unit, which enables us to detect underlying dental issues that may not be visible during a routine oral exam. This technology plays a crucial role in delivering precise, high-quality dental care tailored to each patient's needs.
All dental procedures are performed under anesthesia to ensure the utmost comfort and safety for your pet. Anesthesia not only allows for a thorough cleaning of each tooth and the area beneath the gum line, but also provides an opportunity for a detailed and complete examination of the entire oral cavity. This enables our team to identify and address any dental concerns promptly and effectively, helping to maintain your pet's oral health and overall well-being.
The Importance of Dental Health in Animals
Dental health is a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of veterinary care, significantly impacting your pet's overall well-being. Just like humans, pets are susceptible to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Without proper dental care, these problems can lead to severe health complications, including infections, pain, and even organ damage.
Common Dental Issues in Pets
Periodontal disease is one of the most prevalent dental conditions in animals. It begins with plaque accumulation on the teeth, which can harden into tartar if not addressed. This condition can lead to gum inflammation, tooth loss, and, if left untreated, systemic infections affecting vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.
By the age of three, approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats exhibit signs of dental disease, such as bad breath, tartar buildup, and gum inflammation. These early indicators often go unnoticed, as pets tend to mask discomfort. However, without timely intervention, dental issues can progress to more serious conditions like periodontal disease, which affects the structures supporting the teeth.
Other dental problems include tooth fractures, often caused by trauma or chewing hard objects, and malocclusions, which are misalignments of the teeth and jaw. These issues can cause pain, difficulty eating, and may require professional dental interventions.
Moreover, dental pain can cause affect your pet's behavior and appetite. Pets with dental discomfort may exhibit signs of irritability, reduce activity levels, and a reluctance to eat, which can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. This not only diminishes their quality of life but also complicated their overall health management.
Signs of Dental Problems in Pets
Pet owners should be vigilant for sighs of dental issues, which include:
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Excessive drooling
- Changes in eating or chewing habits
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Loose or missing teeth
If any of these symptoms are observed, please reach out to us to schedule an appointment with a veterinarian.
Preventative Dental Care
Maintaining good dental hygiene is vital for for preventing dental disease in pets. Regular brushing with pet-safe toothpaste, providing dental chews, and offering appropriate chew toys can help reduce plaque buildup. Additionally, scheduling annual dental check-ups with one of our veterinarians allows for early detection and treatment of potential issues. Here is a link of recommended and VOHC approved products:
In conclusion, prioritizing dental health in animals is essential for their overall health and quality of life. By implementing preventative measures and seeking timely veterinary care, pet owners can ensure their companions lead healthy, pain-free lives.