Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Dental Disease at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale, NY

In your busy life as a concerned pet owner, you've probably got items such as vaccinations, wellness checks, de-worming, and pest prevention on your "to-do" list. But how much do you know about fighting dental disease in your pet? Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions on the subject at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County in Ferndale NY.

What Are the Most Common Types of Pet Dental Disease?

"Pet dental disease" is a wide-ranging term for a variety of conditions that can damage your pet's dental health and overall health. Some of the most common problems include periodontal disease (an inflammation of the gum tissues), bacterial infections in the teeth or jawbone, and oral cancer.

How Does Periodontal Disease Damage Gums?

When plaque hardens into tartar around your pet's teeth, bacteria use that tartar as a food source. The body responds to the bacteria with an inflammatory immune reaction which causes the gum tissue surrounding the tooth to deteriorate. Your pet can suffer from severe oral pain and tooth loss as a result. The inflammation and  infection in the mouth can travel to distant locations and deteriorate kidney and liver function and cause heart valve infections that can be life threatening.

Can a Damaged Tooth Lead to Dental Disease?

A cracked or broken tooth provides an entrance for bacteria, leading to dental disease. The bacteria can infiltrate the pulp chamber and possibly invade the jawbone as well, creating painful abscesses.

How Does Oral Cancer Affect Pets?

Oral cancer is a fast-moving killer, but one that doesn't always show obvious symptoms until late in its development. The disease can destroy oral tissue and possibly spread to other parts of the body as well. Regular exams by a veterinarian can pick up on these problems early and in turn give us more treatment options. 

How Does Your Veterinarian Treat Dental Diseases in Pets?

Our veterinarian at the  Animal Hospital of Sullivan County, Dr. Bodolosky, can provide a variety of different treatment methods for helping your pet overcome dental diseases. Antibiotics can tame an acute bacterial infection but the underlying problem needs to be addressed for a long term solution. Severely damaged or infected teeth can be extracted, removing risks to other parts of the mouth and body and easing your pet's chewing discomfort. Oral cancer can also be treated through surgery and/or other treatments. 

What Preventative Steps Can Help Prevent Dental Disease?

Regular pet dental exams and cleanings at the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County can make all the difference in keeping your pet's mouth and body disease-free. We can X-ray the teeth and jaw, look for early signs of cancer, and remove even tough tartar under anesthesia to discourage bacteria. We can also teach you how to look after your pet's dental health between checkups.

Call the Animal Hospital of Sullivan County for Your Pet's Dental Care

Let the Animal Hospital of SullivanCounty answer all your pet dental disease questions and provide much-needed dental care. Call (845) 292-6711 today for a consultation and exam!