Neglecting your pet's bad breath can sometimes have serious consequences and health effects. When left untreated, dental disease can cause significant pain and discomfort, infection, and bacterial accumulation.
Below is a list of signs that are attributed to dental disease:
Here at Family Pet Clinic, we work with clients and patients to make dental care a priority in the health of your pet. At every physical examination, we observe the teeth and gums to look for potential signs of dental disease.
Should we find anything, we may recommend your pet get digital radiographs. Digital radiographs allow us to see below the gum line, which is where we can see for sure if your pet has dental disease or not, and the severity. These images also allow us to pinpoint which areas of the gums are most affected. This also allows us to see if any teeth are infected or rotted. In some cases, teeth may be beyond repair and will warrant extraction. If this is the case, we will discuss dental plans and treatment options with you first.
If your pet’s dental examination finds dental disease or infection, at-home teeth brushing will not do, and a dental cleaning is required. Dental cleanings allow our veterinarians to clean below the gum line and completely rid the mouth of any infectious bacteria.
All professional dental cleanings must be performed under general anesthesia. This procedure is put in place for the safety of your pet and the safety of the veterinary professional performing the cleaning.
It is important to remember the road to proper dental hygiene for your pets begins at home. We will still do our part during routine examinations, but it is highly recommended you take the necessary steps to ensure your pet is receiving proper dental care. Please feel free to ask our veterinarians about pet-friendly products and at-home treatment options we offer!
Not all pets are the most well behaved when their owners try to brush their teeth. However, if you are lucky enough that your pet lets you, that’s great! For those of you with more finicky pets, we are happy to recommend alternatives such as rinses, treats, and toys that will help your pet maintain good dental hygiene.
If you have recently added a new pet to your family try to brush his or her teeth as early as possible. Hopefully, this will lead them to be more cooperative and less stressed.
Phone: 215-357-6357
Urgent Care Hours: Sundays from 10am-1pm. Read more. The office will be closed from 1pm - 2pm on Monday - Friday. On surgery days the drop off time will be at 8am.
Phone: 215-357-2885
The office will be closed from 1pm - 2pm on Monday - Friday. On surgery days the drop off time will be at 8am.
