All You Need to Know About Cat & Dog Dental Care
Most of us pet lovers take our fur babies to the vet for regular checkups and routine care, so our pets can be in the best of health. Those visits are essential. But you may not realize the importance of oral health and routine teeth cleaning for your dog or cat in relation to your pet’s overall wellness.
Lack of regular care for your pet’s teeth and gums can result in many serious health issues besides cavities and bad breath. The Wycliff Animal Clinic, located in Overland Park, KS, is dedicated to providing quality pet dental care at an affordable price. Their up-to-date facility is equipped with a surgical suite and diagnostic laboratory and is staffed by experienced veterinarians and supported by a qualified team that excels at providing quality dental care for your pet.
The Importance of Pet Dental Care
Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that hold the teeth in place and is common in dogs and cats. Most animals will begin to show signs of it by the age of three.
Left untreated, it can lead to painful and swollen gums, chewing problems, and eventually tooth loss. The infection can also spread to the internal organs, causing heart, kidney, or liver damage. Early detection is important, discovering dental problems before they become serious allows for better treatment options.
It’s recommended that your pet have a dental checkup and teeth cleaning at least once per year.
Symptoms Of Dental Problems in Dogs and Cats
Signs of dental problems in pets can include loose, missing, or discolored teeth, extremely bad breath, reduced appetite, swelling of the gums or jaw, heavy tartar buildup, bleeding from the mouth, abnormal chewing, or excessive drooling. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to have them examined by your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Dental Services to consider:
· Complete dental examinations
· Teeth polishing
· Professional cleaning and plaque removal
· Oral surgery, including tooth extractions
· Abscess and cyst removal
When you bring your pet in, typically it will receive a thorough physical examination and diagnostic testing. If a dental procedure is warranted, general anesthesia will be given prior to the procedure, followed by rest in a comfortable and quiet recovery room afterward until it’s time to take them home. Your vet will then give you complete instructions for whatever care is needed at home.
If you have any questions about dental care for your sweet pet, we’re grateful to have the local professionals at Wycliff Animal Clinic in Overland Park, KS, guiding us on this topic. If you’d like to schedule an appointment, please use their online form.
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