Dental disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats. Over 68% of all pets over the age of three have some form of periodontal or dental disease. Most pets will show few signs of dental disease. It is up to the pet’s family and veterinarian to uncover this hidden and often painful condition. The most common dental problems seen in dogs are caused by periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is a term used to describe inflammation or infection of the tissues surrounding the tooth. It is estimated that over 68% of dogs over three years old suffer from some degree of periodontitis, making it by far the most common canine disease. The mouth of all mammals is home to thousands of bacteria. Many of these bacteria will breed on the surfaces of the tooth and form an invisible layer called plaque. Some of this is removed naturally by the dog’s tongue and chewing habits, but if allowed to remain on the tooth surface, the plaque thickens, becomes mineralized and is then visible as tartar and ultimately calculus. The tartar presses on the gums, which recede, causing inflammation and infection called gingivitis. The gums continue to recede until ultimately the tooth socket is infected and the tooth is lost. In addition, the bacteria are absorbed into the blood stream and can be carried to other organs. Heart valve infections (endocardiosis or endocarditis), kidney and liver problems are frequently caused by "bad teeth".

The goal of dental scaling and polishing is to remove the tartar and invisible plaque. Your pet will receive a full examination, gas anesthesia, bloodwork, an intravenous catheter, and pain management. The type of bloodwork performed will be based on your pet's age. If your pet is less than 5 years a Basic Profile will be performed and if they are 5 years and older more extensive bloodwork will be performed. Your pet will be monitored with an EKG and pulse oximetry through the entire procedure, and a technician will monitor their recovery. Your pet will be anesthetized for the entire cleaning procedure, allowing us to be very thorough. Your pet’s teeth will be cleaned with an ultrasonic scaler and polished to remove any roughness left by the scaling. Once the calculus is removed, more tooth damage and root exposure may be obvious and explain the need for any tooth extractions. Extractions will be done upon the veterinarian’s discretion, unless you specifically request otherwise. We will then promote healing and reduce inflammation through the use of our Theraputic Laser. Finally, the teeth will receive a fluoride treatment and a dental sealant will be applied. Your pet usually is ready to be discharged by 5:30 PM. After your pet's teeth are cleaned we highly recommend our Dental Vaccine. This vaccine fights the bad bacteria that can destroy your pet's teeth. (For Dogs Only) It can be difficult to predict the extent of dental disease in advance of the procedure. Please call for an estimate.  It may be necessary for one of our doctors to examine your pet prior to an estimate being given if we have never seen them before. To see what is required for your pet to have a dental click on the link below to get more information.

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