Dental Disease
The American Veterinary Dental Society tells us that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3. While dental disease begins in the mouth, infections of the teeth and gums can easily lead to more serious health problems including heart, lung, and kidney disease. These concerns make proper dental care for pets critical in prolonging life and maintaining health in dogs and cats.
Palmetto Animal Hospital understands that there are three distinct steps to dental health in pets. These steps are:
- Dental exams
- Dental cleanings
- Home dental care
Dental Examination & Cleaning
A basic dental exam can be done by our veterinarians at your regular wellness visit but, for safety and comfort, the dental cleaning must be performed under general anesthesia. Before this procedure, we run a pre-surgical blood panel to ensure your pet’s ability to tolerate the anesthesia. Your pet is closely monitored throughout the surgical procedure and recovery until awake and alert.
Our routine Dental Package for dogs and cats includes the following:
- Full mouth dental radiographs
- Scaling and polishing
- Periodontal disease grading
- IV catheter/ fluids during procedure
- Anesthesia and Vitals Monitoring by a Veterinary Technician
** A customized treatment plan will then be made after teeth are scaled and dental radiographs are reviewed by the Veterinarian. If any extractions are recommended, you will be provided an estimate to include the extraction(s), pain medication and any follow up home care.
At-Home Dental Care
OraVet is a plaque prevention system designed to significantly reduce plaque and tartar formation, creating an invisible barrier that prevents bacteria from forming on your pet’s teeth. We apply the OraVet Barrier Sealant after your pet’s dental cleaning. You may continue this care at home by applying the OraVet Plaque Prevention Gel weekly to your pet’s teeth and gum line. Learn more at the OraVet website.
T/D treats are an abrasive chew treat that is great for scraping tartar off of the teeth. The Hill’s Science Diet website answers your questions about pet dental care, with more about Prescription Diet t/d for cats and dogs.
All of our veterinarians are skilled at small animal dental care and will assist you in developing a plan for positive oral hygiene and home dental care. A simple home care routine is easy to establish and significantly improves the oral and dental health of your dog or cat. We will assist you in creating a home dental plan that works for you and your pet.
WebMD’s Pet Health Center offers dog owners this instructional slideshow, How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth. The Cornell University Feline Health Center offers cat owners this instructional video, Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth.
Wellness care for health and longevity is our top priority — contact us at Palmetto Animal Hospital for answers to your questions about pet dental care or to set up an appointment today.
