Dental Care

Good dental care is essential for overall health—not just for humans, but for our pets as well. While many people focus on their own oral hygiene, pet dental care often goes overlooked, leading to serious health issues for our furry friends. Just like us, pets can suffer from gum disease, tooth decay, and other dental problems that can affect their quality of life. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by the age of three. Regular pet dental care not only helps prevent bad breath and tooth loss but can also prevent bacteria from entering the bloodstream and causing more serious conditions like heart, liver, or kidney disease. In this article, we will explore the importance of dental care for both humans and pets, offering tips and best practices to ensure everyone in your household maintains a healthy smile.

Dental Care at Peterborough West Animal Hospital

At Peterborough West Animal Hospital if we examine your pet and note bad breath, tartar buildup or gingivitis, we will recommend a dental cleaning. A complete dental cleaning requires removal of tartar and plaque under the gum line and this can only be done under general anesthesia. This means your pet will spend the day in the hospital.

About the Anesthesia?

We use isoflurane inhalant (gas) anesthesia as it is the safest anesthesia available.

What will be done to my pet’s teeth?

First, any buildup is removed using ultrasonic dental equipment to ensure proper pet dental care. Then, the teeth are examined for signs of periodontal disease, including gum pockets or loose teeth. Afterward, the teeth are polished, and a fluoride treatment is applied to strengthen the enamel. X-rays are taken to evaluate the tooth roots, helping to determine the overall health of your pet’s teeth.

What if gingivitis is present or pockets are found?

These conditions are often complicated by bacterial infection and an antibiotic may be prescribed. Deep pockets may require oral surgery to extract the teeth. Dr. Sargent or Dr. Giffen or a one of our technicians at Peterborough West Animal Hospital will discuss this with you.

What if there are diseased or loose teeth?

Loose teeth are a source of pain to the pet and surgical extraction should be performed.

How much does it cost?

At Peterborough West Animal Hospital, we offer comprehensive pet dental care, including a detailed treatment plan outlining costs for anesthesia, hospitalization, dental cleaning and polishing, fluoride treatment, dental X-rays, IV fluids, and any necessary antibiotic or pain relief medications. We understand that veterinary care can be costly, so we recommend checking out our article on Ways to Save Money at the Vetfor practical tips on managing expenses without compromising your pet’s health.

Will there be any additional charges?

The team at Peterborough West Animal Hospital recommends that all patients have a presurgical blood screen – to check the red and white blood cells and test the liver and kidney function before anesthesia is administered. Also, any extractions would involve additional charges.

What can I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth healthier?

At Peterborough West Animal Hospital we carry a number of products that will help prevent dental disease. We carry pet toothbrushes and toothpaste for brushing the teeth. We also have “CET aquadent”, an oral rinse to help prevent gingivitis and “CET Veggident chews”, which can all be used in a home care program to keep the teeth cleaner and healthier. We also carry T/D Diet for Dogs and Cats that is helpful in preventing tartar buildup.

What if I don’t have a dental done on my pet?

In addition to the bad smell (halitosis), tartar and gingivitis can lead to tooth abscesses, loose or missing teeth, unwillingness to eat, and generalized mouth pain if left unattended. It can also lead to more systemic (body-wide) diseases, such as bacterial infections which are carried through the bloodstream to the heart, kidneys and other organs. Remember that pets “suffer in silence” with a painful mouth. Think of how you feel with a toothache!

For more information about dental care or to schedule a check-up, please speak with one of Peterborough West Animal Hospital’s knowledgeable team members. We also offer comprehensive Veterinary Wellness & Pet Vaccinations services to help keep your pet healthy and prevent various health issues, including dental problems.

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How early does periodontal disease typically start?

Periodontal disease in pets can begin as early as three years of age, with most showing some signs by this time. The condition progresses from tartar and plaque accumulation beneath the gum line, leading to gingivitis and potentially severe dental issues if not addressed. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings at a veterinary clinic are crucial for early detection and management of periodontal disease, helping to prevent its advancement and associated health complications. Additionally, home care routines like brushing and specific dental products can mitigate the onset of this disease.

What are the early warning signs of dental problems that pet owners should watch for?

Early warning signs of dental issues in pets include persistent bad breath, visible tartar accumulation, and inflamed gums, often indicated by redness or bleeding. Pets may also display a reluctance to eat, chew more on one side, or frequently paw at their mouth. These symptoms suggest potential dental problems, such as gingivitis or periodontal disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to more severe health issues including tooth loss and systemic infections affecting major organs. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper dental hygiene can help prevent these complications.

What other health problems can be associated with dental disease?

Dental disease in pets, characterized by conditions such as tartar buildup, gingivitis, and tooth decay, can significantly impact overall health beyond just oral discomfort. Poor dental health often leads to systemic issues as bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream, potentially causing infections in vital organs like the heart and kidneys. This bacterial spread can result in heart disease, renal infections, and a weakened immune system, which exacerbates other health complications. Therefore, maintaining good dental hygiene is crucial for preventing more severe health problems in pets.

What types of diagnostic procedures might be needed beyond basic examination?

Beyond a basic examination, diagnostic procedures may include dental X-rays to evaluate the roots of the teeth and detect issues not visible above the gum line. This imaging helps determine the health of the teeth and identify any hidden periodontal disease. Additionally, a presurgical blood screen is often recommended to assess red and white blood cell counts and evaluate liver and kidney function before administering anesthesia. These tests ensure the pet is healthy enough for the procedure and help tailor anesthesia and treatment plans to the individual animal’s needs.

How does diet actually affect dental health?

Diet influences dental health by affecting plaque and tartar accumulation on teeth. Feeding pets specially formulated dental diets, such as T/D Diet for Dogs and Cats, can help prevent tartar buildup. These diets are designed with kibble shapes and textures that mechanically clean teeth as the pet chews. Incorporating dental chews like ‘CET Veggident chews’ also aids in reducing plaque and promoting healthier gums. Providing appropriate diets and dental products at home supports oral hygiene, potentially reducing the risk of dental diseases and the need for professional cleanings under anesthesia.

Contact us, your local animal hospital in Peterborough, ON!