Dental Care

Dental problems can be painful for your pet. Addressing these issues early can prevent your furry companion from unnecessary suffering.

dog teetch being held by vet

Pet Dental Care:
The Secret to a Happy, Healthy Smile

Many people don’t realize that your pet’s oral health is essential to maintaining their well-being. Strong, healthy teeth mean a happy and stable life, and Northlake Animal Hospital is excited to provide excellent dental veterinary care for your pet. We offer a comprehensive range of services and anesthetic and non-anesthetic procedures. Dental issues in pets can lead to more significant health problems. Bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream, affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Proper dental care can extend your pet’s lifespan. When your pet’s teeth are healthy, they can eat comfortably and receive essential nutrients.

Why Does My Pet Need Dental Care?

Oral health is as essential to a pet as it is to humans. Many of the same afflictions humans suffer can happen to your dog or cat. Periodontal disease, for example, is quite common, as tartar and plaque build-up tend to sit on a pet’s teeth for a long time before someone takes notice.

Additionally, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and travel to different organs, which can cause serious harm. Regular dental veterinary care and observation can protect your pet from lasting damage.

How Does Northlake Animal Hospital Care for My Pet’s Oral Health?

At Northlake Animal Hospital, we believe that our time is best spent on prevention so that your pet can avoid health issues in the first place. Our comprehensive exams include thorough oral examinations and full-mouth digital dental X-rays. We can handle simple and complex veterinary dental procedures with or without anesthesia.

How Often Should My Pet Go to the Veterinary for Dental Care?

Prevention is always the best treatment. We recommend that your pet receive two oral examinations every year. That way, we can note any changes to your pet’s oral health and provide early treatment for conditions before they worsen.

What are the Signs of Periodontal Disease?

We’ve all heard of ‘dog breath,’ but there’s a difference between an everyday scent and a sign of gum disease. If you notice a strange and unfamiliar scent coming from your dog’s mouth, don’t assume it’s normal. Other signs of periodontal disease include:

  • 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)
How Long Should I Wait Before Visiting a Veterinarian for Dental Care?

Some people think waiting for the symptoms to subside or worsen before visiting the vet is good, but it’s quite the opposite. Dental conditions can quickly worsen, so if you think your pet has dental disease, you should schedule a consultation immediately. Once you visit, we can determine if they need an anesthetic or non-anesthetic cleaning.

Does My Pet Need an Anesthetic Cleaning?

Whether or not your pet needs anesthesia depends on the progression of a given dental disease. Non-anesthetic methods are best used for preventive care, especially in older patients. Anesthetic dental cleanings, on the other hand, are best suited for cases of advanced dental disease as they might require a more thorough procedure.

What is Feline Dental Care?

Cats are quite susceptible to several dental diseases, such as stomatitis or feline oral resorptive lesions (FORL), so routine care is critical. In cases of FORL, for example, we can only diagnose the progression using radiographs. By bringing your cat twice a year for regular exams, we can keep an eye on any dental disease and treat your pet right when needed.

How Can I Care for My Pet’s Oral Health at Home?

An early start is the key to maintaining a lifetime of excellent oral health. Brushing your pet’s teeth from when they are a pup will teach them to accept or even like the process. To maintain healthy teeth, you should brush their teeth at least three times a week.

Caring for your pet’s teeth at home is now easier than ever. You can choose a toothpaste flavor they might enjoy, making them less likely to be fussy during brushing. After regular brushing for a few weeks, they will grow accustomed to the treatment and might even welcome their regular brushing.

Are You Looking for Pet Dental Care near Palm Beach Gardens?

Northlake Animal Hospital always puts pets first. We offer a wide range of dental veterinary products, including specialized diets, toothpaste, toothbrushes, chews, and more. If your pet needs professional dental care, we also offer many services to keep your pet’s teeth in top shape. Contact us today to experience the difference at Northlake Animal Hospital!

Unlocking the Benefits for Your Beloved Pet:

Dental Examinations:

Regular dental check-ups are essential to catch dental issues early. We examine your pet’s mouth, teeth, and gums, looking for signs of infection, tartar, or other problems.

Professional Cleaning:

Our veterinary team performs thorough dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup, a common cause of dental disease.

Tooth Extractions:

In cases of severe dental disease, we may need to extract damaged or infected teeth to prevent further complications.

Home Dental Care Education:

We educate pet parents on the importance of at-home dental care, including brushing your pet’s teeth and providing dental-friendly treats and toys.

Taking the First Step Toward Your Pet’s Healthy Smile

At Northlake Animal Hospital, we’re passionate about ensuring your pet’s well-being and dental health. A healthy smile leads to your beloved companion’s happy, active, and pain-free life. Contact us today to schedule your pet’s dental examination and embark on a lifetime of healthy smiles.