Montgomery pet owners - Did you know that dogs and cats experience the same dental problems as people?

Pets can get plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to gingivitis and dental disease. Dental disease is THE most common disease in dogs. Recent studies show that 85% of cats and 92% of dogs over age 3 have periodontal disease. Don't let your pet be a statistic- schedule their dental cleaning appointment today!

Signs That Your Pet Might Have Dental Disease

• Bad breath
• Yellow/brown spots on teeth
• Inflamed, swollen, red, or bleeding gums
• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing face
• Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
• Loose or missing teeth

Besides BAD BREATH, pet dental disease:

• Releases bacteria in the bloodstream and organs
• Increases your pet's risk for heart, liver, and kidney disease
• Can cause severe pain and problems for your pet

Pets need regular dental cleanings to increase quality and length of life. Regular dental cleanings:

• Allow us to chart dental disease over time
• Reduce the need for more advanced and expensive treatment in the future
• Can add up to 2-4 years to your pet's life
• Will improve your pet's appetite, mood, and energy level

What Happens During My Pet's Dental Cleaning?

During a dental cleaning (sometimes called a prophylaxis), plaque and tartar are removed from a pet's teeth and the health of the entire mouth (tongue, gums, lips, and teeth) is assessed.

A thorough dental cleaning can be accomplished only while the pet is under general anesthesia. The anesthesia we use is safe for animals and your pet is monitored constantly while under anesthesia. Prior to anesthesia, blood tests are performed to help uncover any hidden illnesses.

How Can I Take Care Of My Pet's Dental Health At Home?

Dry kibble is better at cleaning the teeth than the alternative canned foods, it is not the best way to prevent tartar build up. In addition, animals don't chew as thoroughly as humans their instinct is to eat quickly, not to savor each bite.

Chewing on bones or hides can help to clean the teeth, but is still not as thorough as regular brushing. Regular brushing at home is the best way to consistently clean teeth.

Need help with your pet's dental cleanings? Contact us to schedule your dental cleaning appointment now!