At Cheshire Crossing Animal Hospital, the doctors and
staff consider dental health to be a top priority. A thorough examination
of the mouth with emphasis on the teeth and gums is an integral part of
every pet’s physical exam.
Disease of the gum tissue, known as periodontal disease, affects 85% of
adult dogs and cats. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to pain,
bad breath, and tooth loss. Over time, chronic bacterial infection of the
mouth can lead to disease in other parts of the body such as the heart
and kidneys.
We all know that caring for our own teeth involves frequent brushing,
flossing, and rinsing. And while we may have the very best technique for
our own dental health, we also know we should visit a dentist for a professional
cleaning at least once a year.
Unlike their human companions, dogs and cats often
receive very little dental home care. The occasional bone and crunchy
kibble are no substitute for the toothbrush. This is why it is very important
for our pets to have their teeth cleaned and examined by their veterinarian
on a regular basis. (See
how to brush your pet's teeth at home.)
As
pets don’t sit perfectly still, say "ahh" and
swish and rinse on command, it is necessary for them to be fully anesthetized
for their dental cleaning. Once a pet is anesthetized, a thorough and complete
examination of the mouth, teeth and gums is performed. Digital dental x-rays
are then taken and evaluated by the veterinarian. These x-rays allow us
to see the teeth both above and below the gum line. Any teeth that are
infected or have severe breaks are typically extracted. Healthy teeth are
cleaned with an ultrasonic scaler and then polished. Finally, the teeth
are treated with fluoride and sealed with an electrostatic barrier produce
called OraVet.
Preserving the investment of the dental cleaning is
important to your pet’s health as well as your wallet. That is
why we have all dental patients return two weeks following their procedure
to meet with a registered veterinary technician. Together you will go
over ideas for dental home care and put together a plan that is best
for your pet.
We have a wide variety of products to help with this
mission. We are huge fans of brushing, but of course that is not always
an option. That is why we have antibacterial rinses, wipes and gels available
as their application may be a little easier for both you and your pet.
Chewing is another approach for oral health. Using dental diets for main
meals or even treats is a great choice. Another excellent option are
dental chews that contain an antibacterial product called chlorhexidine.
Whatever your choice for home care, remember that ANY contribution you
make to your pet’s oral
health is a SIGNIFCANT contribution.
If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s current dental
health, please contact us to schedule an appointment. We’ll be happy
to put together a customized treatment plan.
At Cheshire Crossing Animal Hospital, the doctors and
staff consider dental health to be a top priority. A thorough examination
of the mouth with emphasis on the teeth and gums is an integral part of
every pet’s physical exam.
Disease of the gum tissue, known as periodontal disease, affects 85% of
adult dogs and cats. Left untreated, periodontal disease can lead to pain,
bad breath, and tooth loss. Over time, chronic bacterial infection of the
mouth can lead to disease in other parts of the body such as the heart
and kidneys.
We all know that caring for our own teeth involves frequent brushing,
flossing, and rinsing. And while we may have the very best...read more
A thorough examination
of the mouth with emphasis on the teeth and gums is an integral part of
every pet’s physical exam. 
As
pets don’t sit perfectly still, say "ahh" and
swish and rinse on command, it is necessary for them to be fully anesthetized
for their dental cleaning. Once a pet is anesthetized, a thorough and complete
examination of the mouth, teeth and gums is performed. Digital dental x-rays
are then taken and evaluated by the veterinarian. These x-rays allow us
to see the teeth both above and below the gum line. Any teeth that are
infected or have severe breaks are typically extracted. Healthy teeth are
cleaned with an ultrasonic scaler and then polished. Finally, the teeth
are treated with fluoride and sealed with an electrostatic barrier produce
called 
course that is not always
an option. That is why we have antibacterial rinses, wipes and gels available
as their application may be a little easier for both you and your pet.
Chewing is another approach for oral health. Using dental diets for main
meals or even 
