Services
What Is the Importance of Veterinary Dental Care?
Dental health concerns, including tooth decay and gum disease, are common among cats and dogs, with severe consequences if left untreated. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, by the age of three, approximately 70% of cats and 80% of dogs show some form of dental problem, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
The most prevalent dental condition affecting pets is gum disease, a progressive condition that can damage the gums, bones, and tissues supporting the teeth, leading to loose teeth and tooth loss. The harmful gum disease-causing bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart and other vital organs, impacting your pet's health.
How Often Should You Schedule Veterinary Dental Care Visits?
At Lost Dog Vet, we typically conduct dental exams during your furry friend's yearly wellness visits. If, however, you see signs of dental disease between exams, make sure to schedule an appointment for immediate care. Signs of dental problems include bad breath, tooth discoloration, bleeding or inflamed gums, loose or broken teeth, facial swelling, or difficulty chewing and eating. The sooner a problem is addressed, the better the outcomes for your furry friend.
What Are Veterinary Dental Services Offered by Lost Dog Vet?
At Lost Dog Vet, our main focus is on prevention to keep your pet's teeth and gums as healthy as possible. The following are some of the dental care services we offer:
- Dental Cleanings: We recommend annual cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup, which helps lower the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Dental cleanings are performed under general anesthesia for your pet's safety and comfort.
- Dental Radiography:Dental X-rays provide intricate images of what's happening in your pet's teeth and below the gum line. They help us detect early signs of gum disease, tooth decay, tooth root infections, bone loss, and more, allowing for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment planning.
- Dental Extractions:At times, we may need to remove severely decayed or painful teeth. Aside from general anesthesia, we also offer nerve blocks to maximize your pet's comfort during and after the procedure.
- Gingival Flap Surgery: This surgical technique may be recommended to remove larger teeth or to treat severe cases of periodontal disease. It involves lifting the gum tissue to access the affected tooth or teeth, preventing further complications.
At-Home Dental Care Tips for Pets
Aside from routine veterinary dental care, it is important to care for your pet's dental health at home. Just like humans, pets benefit from regular brushing, which helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup, the leading cause of gum disease and tooth decay in dogs and cats.
The earlier you start brushing your furry friend's teeth, the easier it will be. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and remember to offer plenty of praise and rewards to build positive associations with having their teeth cleaned.
If your pet is resistant to brushing, you may need to consider dental chews or oral cleansers to help prevent plaque buildup. There are even special foods that help minimize plaque and tartar buildup. If you have any questions about caring for your pet's dental health, our team at Lost Dog Vet is here to help. We are always happy to offer oral health tips and guidance for at-home dental care.
Veterinary Dental Care
Near Me in El Paso, TX
At Lost Dog Vet, we emphasize the importance of regular dental care for your pet's oral and overall health. We are dedicated to providing comprehensive, compassionate care to our furry patients to help them maintain optimal oral health and enjoy pain-free teeth and gums.