Dentistry
Our skilled team of veterinary professionals is adept at providing preventative dental care procedures that keep teeth and gums clean and healthy while reducing plaque and tartar buildup.
Pet Dentistry
Dental health is an essential but often overlooked part of caring for dogs and cats. Dental (periodontal) disease is one of the most common health issues in pets, with the majority of dogs and cats showing signs by the age of 3. Without proper care, dental disease can lead to severe pain, tooth loss, and even systemic health problems.
Signs of Dental Disease in Pets:
- Tartar Build-Up: Yellow or brown deposits on the teeth.
- Gum Issues: Red, swollen, or bleeding gums (gingivitis).
- Bad Breath: A common early sign of bacteria buildup.
- Drooling: Excessive salivation may indicate oral discomfort.
- Eating Changes: Difficulty chewing, dropping food, or loss of appetite.
- Pawing at the Mouth: Indicates pain or irritation.
- Loose Teeth: Often a sign of advanced periodontal disease.
- Behavioral Changes: Depression or reduced activity due to discomfort.
The Dangers of Untreated Dental Disease:
- Local Effects: Decay of the soft tissue and bone supporting the teeth leads to irreversible periodontal disease and tooth loss. Severe cases may require costly extractions or surgery.
- Systemic Risks: Oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in vital organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs. These infections can result in serious complications or even death if left untreated.
Preventing Dental Disease:
- Annual Veterinary Dental Exams: Regular check-ups help catch issues early.
- Professional Cleanings: Your veterinarian may recommend dental cleanings under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar and address gum disease.
- Daily Home Care:
- Brush your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste and a soft toothbrush.
- Use dental chews, water additives, or diets designed to promote oral health.
- Watch for Symptoms: Report any changes in your pet’s eating habits, breath, or behavior to your veterinarian.
The Link Between Oral and Overall Health:
Because dental disease can impact overall health, annual physical exams and appropriate lab work are critical for detecting infections early. Proactive dental care not only prevents pain and tooth loss but also helps protect your pet’s vital organs and extends their lifespan.
Let me know if you’d like advice on how to brush your pet’s teeth or recommendations for dental care products!
Dental digital radiographs (X-rays) are an invaluable diagnostic tool for evaluating the oral health of cats and dogs. These images allow veterinarians to see below the gumline, where 60-70% of dental disease occurs, and assess the condition of the teeth, roots, and surrounding bone structures.
Why Are Dental Radiographs Important?
- Hidden Issues: Many dental problems are not visible during a physical exam, as they occur beneath the gums. Radiographs help identify:
- Root abscesses or infections
- Fractured or resorbed roots
- Bone loss due to periodontal disease
- Oral tumors or cysts
- Impacted or unerupted teeth (common in brachycephalic breeds)
- Tooth resorption (especially common in cats)
- Pre-Surgical Planning: Before extractions or other dental procedures, radiographs provide critical information about the tooth’s root structure and surrounding bone to guide the treatment.
- Post-Surgical Evaluation: After extractions or other treatments, radiographs confirm that the procedure was successful and that no root fragments remain.
- Preventive Care: Regular dental radiographs can catch early signs of disease before it progresses, allowing for less invasive and more cost-effective treatment.
How Are Digital Radiographs Taken?
- Anesthesia: Pets need to be under general anesthesia or sedation to allow for precise positioning and to minimize stress or movement.
- Advanced Technology: Digital sensors capture high-quality, detailed images of the teeth and surrounding structures in seconds. This technology is safer, as it uses lower levels of radiation compared to traditional film X-rays.
- Immediate Results: Digital radiographs can be viewed instantly, allowing the veterinarian to make quick and informed decisions about treatment.
Benefits of Digital Radiographs:
- Accuracy: Provides highly detailed images for precise diagnosis.
- Efficiency: Faster imaging reduces time under anesthesia.
- Environmentally Friendly: No need for film processing chemicals.
- Patient Comfort: Minimally invasive and ensures thorough assessment without unnecessary extractions or procedures.
Common Findings on Dental Radiographs:
- Dogs:
- Root abscesses from fractured teeth (e.g., chewing bones or toys)
- Advanced periodontal disease
- Retained roots from previously broken teeth
- Bone loss or jaw fractures
- Cats:
- Feline odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORLs)
- Chronic gingivostomatitis
- Tooth root infections
- Fractures of delicate jaw bones
When to Use Dental Radiographs:
- As part of a routine dental cleaning and exam
- If there are signs of dental pain, bad breath, or difficulty eating
- Before and after dental extractions or surgeries
- For monitoring oral conditions in senior pets or those with chronic health issues
Dental radiographs are a key component of comprehensive oral care and are essential for maintaining your pet’s overall health and comfort. If you have concerns about your pet’s oral health, ask your veterinarian about incorporating dental radiographs into their care plan.