Dentistry

Pet Dentistry

When it comes to keeping our pets healthy, as pet parents, we may often overlook the importance of oral and dental hygiene. One of the best (and easiest) indicators of oral disease is bad breath. You may think that bad breath is just part of the package of having a pet in your life, so it may go unnoticed and untreated. If the smell is making YOU sick, it’s definitely causing problems for your pet.

Starting around your pet’s first birthday, they should begin having an annual dental examination and cleaning performed by your veterinarian if plaque is accumulating. Periodontal (gum) disease, caused by the accumulation of plaque and tartar, is the number one illness found in both dogs and cats.  A skilled cleaning removes plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line. The cleaning supports the health of the natural oral defenses so that periodontal disease and other dental issues have a harder time becoming established. Left untreated, dental disease can cause serious problems for your pet, ranging from gum inflammation and tooth loss to infection and even organ damage.

At River Oak Vet, we are committed to offering cutting-edge, compassionate dog and cat dental care for your furry family members. Because most dental diseases develop below the gum line, it is important to take radiographs (i.e. x-rays) to evaluate the portion of the tooth below the gum line and perform a thorough cleaning of the teeth under general anesthesia.

Our dedicated and knowledgeable veterinary team will help you understand your options for the best food, toys, and dental care treatment plans specifically for your pet and your budget. As always, please call us if you have any dental or other health concerns for your pet!