Dentistry

We believe preventive dentistry is much better for your pet's overall good health than waiting until there are significant oral problems present. The costs for dentals are skyrocketing due to the increased technology now available to diagnose, treat, and prevent dental disease. Dental radiographs, root planing, periodontal treatments and more are now considered to be the standard of care. Many, if not all of these expensive procedures can be avoided with early  (before periodontal disease occurs) dental cleanings known as a routine ultrasonic scaling and polishing. To encourage early intervention we offer free dental exams and a relatively inexpensive $150 dental for young dogs (usually less than 5 years of age) that qualify.  Other more time consuming dentals are given estimates based upon the stage of dental disease (Grade 1,2 or 3) and generally cost from $300 to $450.

Gum or tooth infections can directly affect your pet's heart, liver, and kidneys if left untreated.  The constant swallowing of infected saliva can lead to chronic recurrent sore throats and bronchitis. These diseases are very difficult to cure once the cycle of infection and scarring are initiated. Once again, prevention is so much better for the pet.

Small breed dogs, especially many of the short or flat nosed  breeds are most prone to poor mouth health as they mature because of dental crowding. They may need more dental care over the course of their lifetimes than larger breeds or longer nosed dogs.

Cats can get tooth lesions called resorptive lesions. They can be painful and can cause mouth irritation when eating or grooming. Gingivitis (gum disease) can cause mouth irritation and the same signs as resorptive lesions.

General signs of dental disease in dogs and cats:

          1.  Bad breath

          2.  Brownish staining or build up on teeth. (Plaque or calculus)

          3. Difficulty eating or chewing, or eating more slowly.

          4. Loose teeth.

           5. Facial swelling especially below the eye.

Any or all of these signs may be present and require dental attention. Not all pets will show signs but may still be in need of dental care.

Oral exams at home are recommended along with a yearly visit to us for a general check up. Annual vaccines can also be done at that time.

In general when we clean your pet's teeth, it is done under general anesthesia. This allows us to examine the mouth and clean much more thoroughly than most pets will allow when they are awake. A CBC and blood chemistries are done prior to anesthesia. Radiographs, or x-rays of teeth may be taken at this time to help determine if a tooth can be saved or needs to be extracted.

Some types of tooth injuries may be able to be evaluated for bonding procedures. Periodontal treatments may also be done at this time to prevent future tooth loss.

Your pet's oral care is important to us in order to help keep your pet in the best health possible. We offer these services to your pet:

           1.   Ultrasonic scale and polish

           2.   Periodontal Treatments (if needed)

           3.   Oral radiography

          4.     Tooth bonding

           5.    Extractions (if needed)

We recommend any of the following at home dental care:

           1.    Tooth brushing

           2.     Oral rinses

           3.     Water additives

           4.     Tartar reducing foods or diets (available as a dry food)

           5.     Once weekly sealants (done at home by you as the pet owner)