DENTISTRY
Why does my pet need a dental?
Dental disease in cats and dogs is one of the most common diseases we see. It causes severe pain & discomfort and may even shorten the life of your pet.
This is due to the constant bacterial attack on the heart, liver & kidneys from chronic gum infections or “gingivitis & periodontal disease”.
What are the clinical signs that my pet might have dental disease?
- Bad breath
- Difficulty chewing, perhaps not eating at all
- Chewing with one side of their mouth
- Calculus & tartar (yellow, brown crust) build up on their teeth
- Red and swollen gums - gingivitis/periodontal disease
- Gum recession & premature tooth loss
- Pain or bleeding of the gums
- Decreased appetite & weight loss
What is involved in a dental procedure?
- A full general gas anaesthetic will be given to your pet using the same modern techniques that are used in human hospitals. Most dogs and cats are anaesthetised for their dental procedures for 3 main reasons:
- Often cleaning below the gum line is painful if there is infection and inflammation, without anaesthesia, optimal cleaning cannot be performed
- To stop your pet from moving
- T o secure the airway. Scaling teeth causes bacteria to aerosolise, meaning that pets could end up with pneumonia if the airway isn’t secured using a special tube called an endotracheal tube
- After anaesthesia is induced, your veterinarian will scale microscopic calculus from your pet’s teeth above and below the gum line with an ultrasonic polisher. They will then polish the teeth to prevent re-attachment of plaque.
- Once the teeth are cleaned each tooth & root is examined individually & if necessary any teeth that need removing are taken out.
Recovery
After a dental, most pets will be able to go home the same day.If your pet has an extraction, they will be sent home with painkillers, which will help alleviate any discomfort for up to 5 days after procedure.
Many owners notice their pet becoming more playful and content after their dental work.
Contact us to book your FREE dental check with one of our nurses.
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