Dental disease can cause serious problems for your pet, ranging from gum inflammation and tooth loss to infection and even organ damage.
Up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats that don't receive proper dental care will develop signs of dental disease by the age of three.
Dental disease can be easily prevented by following your veterinarian's advice regarding dental examinations, home care, and dental cleanings.
Your pet's dental cleaning visit will include a thorough dental examination, teeth cleaning, and polishing to remove the tartar and periodontal disease-causing plaque. This is done while your pet is under general anesthesia. Once anesthetized, your veterinarian with the help of veterinary technicians will thoroughly examine the mouth, noting abnormalities in the medical record. A dental probe will be used to evaluate gum bleeding and periodontal pockets where food can accumulate and decay if not properly cared for.
When periodontal disease is advanced, it may not be possible to save the badly affected teeth, which may need to be extracted either during the procedure or at a later time.