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Every
pet should have their teeth cleaned annually---just like humans! The only medically sound way to thoroughly clean the teeth is
under general anesthetic. Cleaning is done by ultrasonic scaling of
the crown (exposed tooth) as well as the part of the tooth below the
gum line. Polishing is the next step which removes microscopic
scratches on the teeth. If this step is omitted, tartar can actually
build up faster. A medicated solution is then flushed below the gum
line to remove debris and reduce bacteria. Finally, fluoride is
applied to the teeth.
As
part of the annual dental cleaning and exam, every pet should have a
full-mouth set of dental x-rays---again, just like humans.
Dental disease is an epidemic in our pet population causing
systemic health problems which affect organs such as heart, kidneys,
liver, etc. As pets
live longer, they develop the same kinds of dental problems that we
do. Animals that show
weakness in the wild are preyed upon or rejected by their
“pack”. Our pets
retain this behavior, as domesticated animals, and tend not to show
pain and discomfort. What
we will see is an animal that acts “older”.
Painful teeth and gums cause a lower quality of life for your
pet. The only way to fully diagnose and treat mouth problems is
with dental x-ray.
Extractions,
if scheduled or deemed necessary by a veterinarian, are done while
your pet is under sedation during the cleaning/x-ray process.
At this time, additional dental problems may be discovered that
require treatment. It is important for us to have a phone
number where you can be reached in order to discuss the recommended
course of action.
A
complete dental can take from 35 minutes to over 2 hours, depending
on the severity of problems in the mouth. All pets are closely
monitored for several hours following any anesthetic procedure prior
to being released home.
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