Dental Care

     Periodontal disease is the primary cause of tooth loss in dogs and cats. Dental care in young adults can prevent irreversible damage. Periodontal disease is very common, with more than 80% of dogs having some degree of periodontal disease and more than 60% of cats. Often by the time your pet is 2 years of age, inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) starts to develop.  By brushing the teeth every day can you can dramatically reduce the need for future dental procedures. All you need is veterinary toothpaste, a finger brush or soft toothbrush, and a few minutes each day. By brushing your pet's teeth every day you can delay or eliminate the need for dentistry and/or extractions and in the long run save you money.  For more information about brushing your pets teeth, here is a guide to tooth brushing.

Dental Cleaning Procedure:

   Removal of plaque above and below the gum line is key to good dental hygiene. It is important to remove the infection that can lead to not only the loss of teeth but can lead to the spread of infection to the heart, kidneys, and liver. Prior to dentistry a thorough dental exam and preanestic profile will performed to evaluate your pet's overall general health.

   Anesthesia is necessary for thorough cleaning below the gum line. We use sevoflurane gas anesthesia as an agent and monitoring is performed by our surgical technician with the assistance of an EKG, blood pressure monitor, warming system, and SPO2.  

 Intravenous fluids are given as necessary for overall system support.  An endotracheal tube is placed to prevent bacteria and water from entering the respiratory system. If extractions are considered, digital X-rays are taken. These radiographs provide critical information for treatment planning, treatment evaluation, and treatment success.

After the calculus is removed, the teeth are then scaled and cavitroned using an ultrasonic scaler with special attention paid below the gum line. The teeth are then polished. Extractions are done as necessary and gum flaps are sewn as needed. All the teeth will be charted to track extractions and follow teeth that may need future attention.  Follow up treatment and home care is performed on a case-by-case basis to achieve periodontal health and prevent future disease progression.   <?xml:namespace prefix = o>