Dental hygiene is an important part of your pet's health, because dental disease can be associated with other serious health problems such as heart disease and kidney disease. Too often, diseases of the teeth and gums go unnoticed and can have serious health consequences. Many of these problems can be avoided by bringing your pet for regular veterinary dental check-ups and dental cleanings.
Signs of dental problems in your pet:
Red, swollen gums could be from gingivitis. Gingivitis occurs when soft plaque hardens into rough, irritating tartar. Tartar build-up on your pet's teeth can cause damage to the teeth and gums. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to an infection called periodontal disease. This disease can cause the loss of teeth.
A pre-dental workup involves laboratory and diagnostic tests to better evaluate a pet's current health status prior to anesthesia. Current medical problems must be evaluated and any possible unknown problems must be identified prior to dentistry. This will ensure that anesthesia is as safe as possible for your pet.
We suggest a brief in-hospital blood screen on the day of your pets dental visit. For older animals, a complete blood count (CBC) and blood chemistry profile is taken prior to the dentistry.
Dental x-rays are taken to help guide treatment and to determine if any teeth need to be extracted. An ultrasonic scaler is used above and below the gumline. Once the teeth have been thoroughly cleaned a periodontal probe is used to check for pockets below the gumline. Then, Your pet's teeth are polished, creating a smooth surface. The gums are washed with an anti-bacterial solution to help delay tartar build-up both below the gumline and on the crown of the tooth.
Some dental services we provide include:
Dental care does not end with a visit to your veterinarian. Brushing your pet's teeth is an important part of home dental care. Brushing your pet’s teeth is the best way to maintain good oral health. If brushing is not possible, other products can be used effectively. The doctors at Bogalusa Animal Clinic can also recommend various dental treats, chews, or rinses to keep the teeth clean and breath fresh.