Veterinary Services
Pet Dental Care at Wellington Veterinary Hospital in Wellington, CO
Wellington Veterinary Hospital supports our patients’ total well-being with the best dental care possible. Dental hygiene is crucial for your pet’s health, as dental illness has been linked to other major health issues like heart disease and renal disease.
Understanding Pet Dental Health
It’s easy to underestimate the impact of dental health on pets’ lives. Dental problems can lead to various health issues such as heart disease, kidney failure, and liver damage. Tartar and plaque buildup on your pet’s teeth can harbor bacteria that may spread to other parts of the body, causing infections and illnesses. Maintaining clean teeth and gums is essential for preventing these serious health complications.
WHAT DOES A DENTAL PROCEDURE INCLUDE?
Each of our dental procedures in Wellington, CO starts with meticulous pre-operative assessments, careful administration of anesthesia, and a comprehensive oral examination. Modern advancements in techniques and anesthetic agents have significantly enhanced the safety of today’s procedures compared to the past. However, it is important to note that no surgical or anesthetic procedure is entirely without risks.
To minimize these risks, we conduct a thorough pre-operative laboratory evaluation. Throughout the surgery, our licensed technicians will continuously monitor vital signs such as heart rate (EKG), blood oxygen levels (pulse oximeter), blood pressure, and respiration.
During the procedure, we inspect beneath the gum line and assess each tooth for any fractures or damage, and conduct comprehensive X-rays of the entire mouth to identify potential issues. Subsequently, we clean and polish the teeth while your pet is under anesthesia, and if necessary, perform surgical extractions.
Benefits of Pet Dental Care
Giving your pet regular dental care brings them many advantages:
- Prevention of Dental Disease: Regular dental cleanings and care help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections, ensuring your pet’s teeth and gums stay healthy.
- Enhanced Overall Health: Good dental health supports your pet’s overall physical health, preventing systemic issues like heart disease and kidney problems, and keeping them active and happy.
- Improved Breath: Regular dental cleanings reduce bad breath, improving your pet’s oral hygiene and overall comfort, enhancing their interactions with you and other family members.
When to Seek Pet Dental Care
It’s crucial to recognize when your pet may need dental care, as the consequences of tartar and plaque accumulation extend beyond bad breath and an unsightly appearance. Bacteria in oral build-up can migrate below
the gum line, leading to infections and illnesses that affect your pet’s overall health.
- Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath can indicate underlying dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups can address these concerns early.
- Difficulty Eating: Pain or discomfort while eating may signal dental problems like broken teeth or infected gums. Prompt veterinary care can alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.
- Excessive Drooling: Increased drooling can be a sign of oral discomfort or infection, especially if accompanied by red or swollen gums. Regular dental cleanings help maintain oral health and prevent such issues.
- Behavioral Changes: Changes in your pet’s behavior, such as reluctance to chew on toys or increased irritability, can indicate dental pain or discomfort.
- Visible Signs: Look for visible signs such as yellow or brown stains on teeth, swollen gums, or bleeding from the mouth, which may indicate advanced dental problems needing immediate attention.
Understanding these signs and scheduling regular dental check-ups at Wellington Veterinary Hospital ensures your pet receives timely care to maintain their dental health and overall well-being.
The Four Grades of Dental Disease
Grade One
Visible plaque accumulation, known as calculus, is present along the gum line, which is red and inflamed, indicating gingivitis. Fortunately, there is no tissue attachment loss at this stage. With proper dental cleaning and consistent at-home dental care, the damage is usually reversible.
Grade Two
Swelling and recession of the gums are evident, with up to 25% tissue attachment loss. A moderate amount of calculus accumulation is present, and the gums typically bleed when probed. In cats, resorptive lesions can often be observed at this stage.
Grade Three
Moderate periodontitis is present, accompanied by a heavy amount of calculus on the teeth and evident gingivitis. There is up to 50% tissue attachment loss, with some mobility of the teeth. Additionally, roots may be exposed due to severe gum recession.
Grade Four
There is a severe infection around the teeth, with heavy calculus accumulation and abscessed teeth. In some cases, blood or pus may be visible around the gum lines. There is greater than 50% tissue attachment loss, and the teeth exhibit severe mobility.
Importance of At-Home Dental Care
While regular veterinary dental cleanings are crucial, at-home dental care is equally important.
- Daily Brushing: Regular tooth brushing using pet-specific toothpaste helps maintain your pet’s oral hygiene by removing plaque and preventing tartar buildup. This simple routine can significantly contribute to your pet’s overall dental health.
- Dietary Considerations: Choosing dental-specific diets and treats can reduce plaque and tartar on your pet’s teeth, promoting better oral health. These specially formulated foods and treats are designed to support your pet’s dental hygiene efforts at home.
- Veterinary Guidance: Consult our team for personalized recommendations on dental care products and practices tailored to your pet’s needs, ensuring effective at-home dental care. Our veterinary professionals can provide expert advice to help you maintain your pet’s oral health between regular dental cleanings.
Visit Wellington Veterinary Hospital Today
At Wellington Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to providing comprehensive pet dental care in Wellington, CO. Our knowledgeable veterinary team emphasizes preventive care and educates pet owners on maintaining their pet’s dental health at home. Schedule a dental check-up today to help your pet enjoy a healthy smile and overall well-being.