Pet Dentistry

Why is Dental Care Important?

A pet dental cleaning in Boca Raton is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Periodontal (gum) disease is among the most common conditions. Gum diseases manifest when there is plaque and tartar build-up on teeth. Plaque harbors harmful bacteria, which can infect the surrounding gum tissue and potentially affect the tooth roots. This results in pain, discomfort, and the potential for tooth loss.

Bacteria from the mouth can also enter the bloodstream through the tiny blood vessels in the gums. The bacteria can travel through the body and harm organs with the highest blood flow: the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver, and even the brain. Infections and the damage they can cause to organ systems can shorten the lives of our furry friends.

To protect the health of your pet, we recommend oral examinations twice a year and annual pet dental services in Boca Raton for cats and dogs. Our complete physical exams include a thorough oral assessment.

Our comprehensive dental treatment plan includes:

• Full anesthesia
• Teeth cleaning (ultrasonic scaling and polishing)
• Full-mouth digital dental X-rays

We are also able to perform tooth extractions and minor oral surgeries during these procedures.

Signs of Dental Disease

• Bad breath
• Discoloration (i.e. a yellow/brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line)
• Red or swollen gums
• Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
• Drooling
• Loose or missing teeth
• Pawing at the mouth
• Pain or bleeding (i.e. when eating, or when the mouth or gums are touched)

Your pet may not be showing any of these signs and still could be suffering from dental disease.

About Our Dental Cleanings

If you think your pet may have dental disease, please call us to schedule an oral exam and dental consultation today! After examination, we will determine if your cat or dog requires a pet dental cleaning in Boca Raton under general anesthesia, or if they are a good candidate for a non-anesthetic dental cleaning.

ANESTHETIC DENTAL CLEANINGS

These are necessary when your pet is showing signs of advanced dental disease. Full-mouth dental radiographs are taken while your pet is under anesthesia to reveal any signs of dental disease below the gum line.

NON-ANESTHETIC DENTAL CLEANINGS

These are also an effective option for preventive care, especially in older patients. However, not all pets are suitable candidates for this procedure, and we will help you to determine which is the best option for your pet based on their overall health condition.

Examples of Oral Disease in Pets

CANINE PERIODONTAL DISEASE

FELINE RESORPTIVE LESIONS

BEFORE AND AFTER DENTAL CLEANING

Preventative Dental Home Care

Brushing your pet’s teeth can go a long way toward preventing dental disease. Some pets resist brushing, but can be taught to accept, or even like it with a little work. You can make this easier by introducing brushing when your pet is a puppy or kitten.

We recommend brushing your pet’s teeth once a day, or at least 3 times a week. Remember, any brushing is better than no brushing at all!

How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

STEP 1: CHOOSE A PET TOOTHPASTE YOUR PET LIKES

Do not use human toothpaste or toothbrushes for your pet. There are many flavors available that they might like, such as fish, chicken, and peanut butter, among others. You may need to try more than one flavor to find your pet’s favorite.

Place a small amount of the pet approved toothpaste on your finger and offer it to your pet as a daily treat for several days. This will allow your pet to become accustomed to the toothpaste and associate it as fun and rewarding.

Once your pet readily and regularly accepts toothpaste as a reward, use your index finger to mimic the brushing motion with the daily dose of flavored toothpaste.

STEP 2: INTRODUCE A PET TOOTHBRUSH

We recommend using the finger toothbrush. Make small circular motions with the brush at a 45-degree angle, beginning at the back of the mouth. Usually eight to ten strokes are sufficient for any given area. Attempt to brush all sides of your pet’s teeth to the best of your abilities. If brushing your pet’s teeth is not an option, we are happy to discuss other products and methods to ensure the long-term oral health of your pet.

Are you Looking for Pet Dental Care in Boca Raton, FL?

At Healthy Pets Veterinary Care Boca North, we have a wide range of dental products, including specialized dental diets, pet toothpaste and toothbrushes, dental chews, and more. We also have several pet wellness plans that include dental services to keep your dogs and cats in the best possible shape throughout their lives. We are your one-stop-shop for all of your pet’s dental needs.

Visit us to learn more about our exceptional team and the services we provide to keep your pets healthy, healthy and by your side. To schedule an appointment, contact us today!