Dentistry and Dental Radiography

Why is Dental Cleaning Important?

Did you know that dogs and cats don't get cavities? They get periodontal disease instead. Periodontal Disease is an infection and inflammation in the tissues underneath the gum line. Because it is out of sight, it is often hard to detect.

More than 85% of dogs and cats over 4 years old have some form of periodontal disease.

Similarily in humans, neglect of one's teeth can result in severe dental disease and tooth loss. Most cats and dogs will continue to eat and act normal despite having painful teeth, which is why, it is our job as pet owners and caretakers to monitor our pet's teeth to ensure they are comfortable.

How Can I Tell If My Pet Has Dental Disease?

Because many pets will try to hide pain and usually continue eating despite discomfort, it is not always easy to tell when their teeth are bothering them. Below are a few warning signs you can watch for at home:

• Bad breath
• Red and inflamed gums
• Chewing on only one side of their mouth
• Loose or missing teeth
• Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
• Sensitivity around the mouth
• Pain or bleeding when your pet eats

This dog had significant tartar covering most of his teeth. Due to the severity of periodontal disease that invaded the root tissue, multiple tooth extractions were required.

How Can I Prevent Periodontal Disease?

Dental disease can be easily prevented. Like people, animals need regular dental cleanings and teeth brushing. Many veterinary-approved dental diets and treats can help remove tartar and coat the mouth with tartar-controlling enzymes.

I Am Concerned About Anesthesia - Is It Really Necessary?

We understand that anesthesia can seem like a scary process, and just as with humans, no anesthesia is entirely risk-free. This is why we must be able to perform an initial exam and blood work on your pet. This will ensure there are no underlying problems that may affect the way your pet handles anesthesia.

You may be thinking, "Why can't you clean my pet's teeth while he is awake?"

Sedation-free dental cleanings can remove some of the tartar and bacteria above the gum line; however, it does nothing to stop the spread of bacteria below the gum line, where periodontal disease begins.

Along with awake-dental cleanings not being thorough, the procedure is stressful and uncomfortable for your pet. Since we cannot explain to cats and dogs why it is beneficial that they have these procedures done, it is unlikely they will cooperate long enough for adequate dental cleanings while awake. Restraining your pet and holding its mouth open would only cause unnecessary mental and physical stress.

To learn more about the risks associated with anesthesia-free dental cleanings, you can visit the Animal Veterinary Dental College website.

How Much Does A Dental Cleaning Cost?

The cost of each dental procedure varies for every pet. If the doctor recommends a dental cleaning for your pet, you will be sent home with an estimate tailored to your pet's oral condition and needs.

The price of each dental cleaning varies depending on the amount of tooth extractions and the overall health of your pet's mouth. Some pets will not require extractions, which will make the cost of the dental significantly lower as well as shorten the duration of anesthesia. This is one of the reasons that we recommend your pet receive regular cleanings.

When making a dental appointment, we do require a $100 deposit. This deposit will go towards your bill at the time of checkout. We require this due to the time set aside for this procedure. We do ask for a 48-hour notice if you cannot make your pet’s dental appointment.

If we do not receive a 48-hour notice, the $100 deposit is non-refundable. Please contact us during business hours for cancellations.