Dental disease is the cause of many serious health issues. Avondale Animal Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama sees more pets with dental disease than any other health issue. Statistical studies show that dental disease is the most common disease in dogs with over 92% of dogs being affected. Likewise, cats over the age of 3 also struggle with dental disease— 85% of cats suffer from periodontitis. The good news is that scheduling annual pet dental cleanings can add 2-4 years to your pet’s life!
Why Do Pets Need Dental Care?
Both dogs and cats need regular dental cleanings as they increase both the length and quality of their life. Some benefits of regular dental cleanings include:
The ability to chart and evaluate pet dental disease over a period of time
Prevention of expensive and advanced pet dental procedures
Less teeth extractions (pulling) for your pet
You visit your dentist for regular cleaning and dental exams. You should give your pet the benefit of regular dental care as well. Routine dental exams are one of the best ways to keep your pet healthy. Our vets at Avondale Animal Hospital recommend scheduling a professional cleaning every six months for optimal dental health.
Dental disease can have a significant impact on the length and quality of your pet’s life. If left untreated, harmful bacteria can be released into your pet’s bloodstream causing damage to vital organs, with increasing risks for kidney, liver or heart disease. The following symptoms are a sure sign of dental disease and you should contact your vet for a dental consultation as soon as possible if you notice them.
Loose or missing teeth
Discomfort when mouth or gums are touched
Decreased appetite or weight loss due to difficulty chewing
Extremely bad breath (one of the primary signs of periodontal disease)
Red or swollen gums which can cause pain and affect appetite
A yellow-brown crust near the gum line
Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth
If left unattended, dental disease can lead to more serious health issues for both cats and dogs. Harmful bacteria may be released into the bloodstream which presents greater risks for kidney, liver and heart disease in your pet. Dental disease can also cause your pet severe pain if left to fester.
Pet Dental Care in Birmingham, Alabama
Avondale Animal Hospital staff and licensed veterinarians are equipped with the latest technologies to make pet dental visits safe and easy. Some of these dental procedures include:
Teeth cleaning and polishing
Deciduous (pet baby teeth), Surgical and routine tooth extractions
Full mouth teeth removal
Use of radiosurgery or laser surgery for Gingival surgery
Repair of Oronasal fistula
Oral surgery for dogs or cats
Mandibulectomy
Jaw repair (fracture)
Pet Dental Cleanings - What to Expect?
While under general anesthesia, your dog or cat can receive a thorough dental cleaning. Avondale Animal Hospital uses a safe, local anesthesia and monitors your pet’s heart rate, oxygen and respiration.
Before dental care begins, blood tests are done to help uncover any underlying illnesses, and we examine the animal’s entire mouth, including lips, tongue, gums and teeth. This assures us that anesthetizing is safe for your pet.
The procedure will include cleaning above and below the gum line and polishing of the teeth for a smooth surface. This helps create a resistance to the buildup of plaque. We also offer fluoride treatments to help strengthen enamel and reduce overall tooth sensitivity.
To schedule an appointment or ask any questions you may have about our pet dental services in Birmingham, Alabama, call Avondale Animal Hospital today!
