Caring for your fur baby’s teeth and gums is just as important as caring for the rest of their body. Without proper dental care, bacteria can form in the mouth and cause dental disease, which can lead to a host of other systemic problems throughout the entire body, including diseases of the heart, liver, and lungs. Help your companion beat the odds by making a commitment to oral health care, both professionally and at home. Western Hills Animal Medical & Surgical Clinic has all the education, tools and pet dentistry services to help your fur baby achieve a healthy mouth for life, including preventative care and the treatment of existing oral health problems. It’s never too late to invest in your companion’s dental health!
We recommend that you start with a preventative dental health plan by bringing your fur baby in for a thorough dental exam at least once a year. During the exam, our experienced doctors will look at the teeth and check below the gum line for any signs of a potential oral health problem. We’ll also perform a dental cleaning in which we use modern equipment to remove plaque and tartar and polish the teeth to a healthy shine.
Should your companion already suffer from oral health problems, such as broken or lost teeth, abscesses or periodontal disease, there are a number of ways that we can deal with these problems and get them under control. Some of the signs and symptoms that your fur baby may be suffering from dental disease include:
- Bad breath
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Loose or broken teeth
- Excessive drooling
- Changes in eating or chewing habits
- Pawing at the face
If you notice your fur baby exhibiting any of these signs, even if he or she regularly receives dental care, it’s important that you contact us to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. The sooner we can address the existence of a dental problem, the better the outcome for your fur baby.
Finally, in addition to the professional pet dentistry services we provide, we also place great emphasis on home dental care. As your fur baby’s closest companion and biggest health advocate, it’s important for you to take an active role in his or her ongoing dental care. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff is happy to provide you with tips and guidance on home dental care techniques as well as advice on products you can use to help keep your fur baby’s teeth and gums healthy in between vet visits.
We want to form a solid partnership with you with the shared goal of helping your furry family member enjoy a healthy smile for life!