Is your dog or cat constantly pawing at its mouth? Have you noticed excessive drooling or bad breath? Does your dog or cat seem hesitant to eat or have difficulty chewing? If so, these are indications of dental disease.
Dental disease causes a variety of health issues for both dogs and cats, including:
• Bacteria that may be released into the bloodstream
• Increased risk of kidney, liver, and heart disease
• Severe pain
Why Pets Need Dental Care
Both dogs and cats need regular dental cleanings as they increase both the length and quality of their life. Some benefits of regular dental cleanings are:
• The ability to chart and evaluate pet dental disease over a period of time
• Prevention of expensive, advanced dental procedures
• Fewer tooth extractions for your pet
Dental Disease Statistics
Inman Park Animal Hospital sees more dental disease in pets than any other problem. Statistics show that dental disease is the most common disease in dogs. 92% of dogs over the age of three are affected. Statistics show that 85% of cats over the age of three struggle with the disease. Fortunately, scheduling an annual dental cleaning can add years to your pet’s life!
Dental Care at Inman Park Animal Hospital
The veterinarians and support staff at Inman Park Animal Hospital are equipped with the latest technologies to make pet dental visits safe and easy. Some of these dental procedures include:
• Cleaning and polishing of teeth
• Surgical and routine tooth extractions
• Removal of deciduous (baby) teeth
• Full mouth tooth extractions
• Use of radiosurgery for gingival surgery
• Other oral surgeries for dogs or cats
• Acupuncture and local nerve blocks control dental pain
Pet Dental Cleanings: What to Expect
Before the dental procedure begins, blood tests are done to help uncover any underlying illnesses. The doctor then performs a full physical examination of your pet. These assessments enable us to assess the risks associated with anesthesia and make your pet’s procedure as safe as possible.
While under general anesthesia, your dog or cat receives a thorough dental cleaning and examination. The doctors at Inman Park Animal Hospital use the safest anesthetic protocols possible during dentistry. Your pet’s heart rate, oxygen, blood pressure, and respiration are monitored before, during, and after the procedure. Pain management is used to help your pet to wake up comfortable and recover quickly.
