The Hidden Dangers of Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats
Dental disease is not a mere inconvenience. It's a significant health issue that can lead to daily pain, difficulty eating, and even systemic health problems due to bacteria entering the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. That's why focusing on pet dental care, including regular cat and dog teeth cleaning, is not just about fresh breath—it's a vital part of their health regimen.
When we see your pet for their routine checkup, these are the signs of dental disease we try to look for:
- Bad breath (a hallmark of poor oral hygiene)
- Red, swollen gums
- Heavy drooling (often a sign of oral pain)
- Yellow/brown buildup along the gum line
We’ll also ask about your pet’s habits at home. Do they drop their food when they eat? Are they having some trouble chewing? These might be signs of dental disease.
Our Approach to Pet Dental Care
At Animal Care Center of Pasco County, we are deeply committed to providing personalized, loving care to your pet, and dental care is no exception.
Here's how we address pet dental care at our animal hospital in New Port Richey, FL:
We use advanced ultrasonic cleaning instruments to ensure a thorough cleaning process, assessing and addressing the health of your pet’s teeth and gums.
Our use of digital radiology allows us to precisely evaluate your pet’s dental health, ensuring no issue is overlooked. Many dental problems are hidden under the gum line, where only X-rays can see.
Your pet’s safety is always our highest priority. We perform all dental procedures with our patients under anesthesia, following guidelines set by the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association. Before any procedure, we do comprehensive blood work to ensure your pet's fitness for anesthesia.
If you would like to learn more about our cat and dog teeth cleaning and dental services, give us a call at (727) 376-7600!