Veterinary Services
Pet Dental Care
Learn more about our pet dental care services below.
Pet Dental Care in Jenison, MI
Despite being one of the most important forms of treatment for dogs and cats, teeth cleaning (and pet dental care in general) is frequently overlooked. As a result, a majority of pets experience dental disease by age three and are at risk for other diseases as well. Since pets with clean, healthy mouths have a greater chance of living longer, why not ensure a healthier future for your best friend? Our team is here to help you every step of the way. Call us at (616) 669-0501 to get started.
Pet Dental Care
Why It’s Important to Prevent Dental Disease
Dental disease occurs in stages, with periodontal disease being the most severe.
- First, continuous buildup of plaque and tartar along the gum line sets the stage for gingivitis (swollen gums).
- The accumulated material on your pet’s teeth harbors bacteria, which finds its way under the gums and attacks the roots of the teeth, leading to bone loss.
- Without treatment, this bacteria breaks down the gum tissue and support structures of the teeth, exposing the roots and increasing the likelihood of tooth loss.
- Bacteria under the gum line could enter the bloodstream and infect the heart, kidneys, and liver. Additionally, periodontal disease can weaken the jaw bones and increase the possibility of a fracture.
How to Know if Your Pet Has Dental Disease
Dental disease is extremely uncomfortable for dogs and cats and will affect their daily life in various ways. The most common signs of a serious oral problem include:
- Bad breath
- Brown/yellow buildup on the teeth
- Drooling far more than usual
- Difficulty eating (dropping food)
- Pawing at the mouth
- Redness and swelling of the gums
- Decreased appetite
- Weight loss
- Change in behavior
- Less interest in fetching and playing with chew toys
Keep in mind that most pets do not show obvious symptoms even if they are in pain. This is why yearly physical exams with a veterinarian are necessary.
Cat and Dog Teeth Cleaning Services Our Clinic Offers
Chicago Drive Veterinary Clinic provides complete pet dental care services to ensure the best oral health for every dog and cat. These include:
- Oral exams
- Dental X-rays before each dental procedure to better detect dental disease
- Scaling and polishing the teeth above and below the gum line
- Oral growth removals
- Instructing pet parents in at-home dental care practices
- Offering VOHC-endorsed dental care products
Will Brushing My Pet’s Teeth Really Help?
Yes! And the sooner you start, the better. Brushing prevents the buildup of plaque and tartar and lengthens the time between professional teeth cleanings. Your pet will be healthier and happier with clean teeth and gums.
Although teeth brushing is the ideal dental home care, many families struggle to accomplish this daily. Don’t fret; the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) has a list of products that have undergone independent clinical trials that demonstrate that they are equal to a day of brushing. Ask one of our staff for recommendations that will suit you and your pet.
If you need treatment recommendations to suit your pet’s unique needs, give us a call today at (616) 669-0501!