Pet Dentistry
Dogs and cats require upkeep for their teeth and gums, just like people do. Help their smiles shine—and protect them from a range of oral infections—by relying on our comprehensive pet dentistry services in Alexandria, VA.
Why Is Dental Care Important for Pets?
If your pet’s teeth aren’t cleaned and cared for, bacteria will build up on them, which turns into plaque. Over time, that plaque will harden into tartar, which is more difficult to remove. If this tartar remains in place, it will eventually make its way underneath the gums, causing problems with the roots of your pet’s teeth. This will first be noticed as reddening and inflammation of the gums. Later, affected teeth will fall out if they are compromised by the bacteria in your pet’s mouth.
Routine teeth cleaning sessions will reduce the chance of a problem and will allow you to notice any changes in your pet’s teeth. This way, you can make an appointment with our veterinarian before more intensive dental care is recommended.
Pet Dental Problems
Some of the most common dental issues we treat at at Fort Hunt Animal Hospital include:
- Periodontal disease
- Broken teeth and roots
- Abscesses
- Infected gums
- Misaligned jaw or bite
- Oral tumors
Efficient Dental Care
The condition of your pet’s teeth has a significant impact on their overall health and well-being. Be sure to get your pet’s teeth checked regularly by the veterinarians at Fort Hunt Animal Hospital.
Conditions such as heart disease or liver problems are just a couple of problems that poor dental health can cause. Make sure your pet’s teeth are checked by a vet at least once a year.
Dental cleaning for your pet involves the administering of anesthesia and teeth are ultrasonically scaled and polished just as yours are at your own 6 month dental checkup.
Signs of Dental Issues in Your Pet
Pets often hide pain or discomfort. Be on the lookout for the following symptoms in your companion, as they may indicate they need dental care:
- Broken or loose teeth
- Teeth that are brown or covered in tartar
- Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- Drooling, dropping food from the mouth, or whining while eating
- Swelling or bleeding around the mouth
- Extremely bad breath
How to Clean Your Pet’s Teeth
To effectively clean a dog or cat’s teeth, a pet toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste are necessary. These items are easily obtainable at pet supply stores. (Do NOT use human toothpaste, as it contains chemicals that are toxic to pets!) Simply dab a bit of the paste on the brush and do your best to swipe it upon a tooth or two when your pet is resting comfortably. If your pet allows you to continue, do so. Most pets will be wary of the procedure and will only allow for a few teeth to be brushed at a time. After they have a few sessions, however, they may allow for a few more teeth to be accessed.
What Our Veterinarian Will Do to Help?
If you are unable to clean your pet’s teeth on your own, or if you notice your pet has a broken tooth or another dental issue during a cleaning session, our vet can help. An evaluation of your pet’s dental condition is conducted and treatment is provided if necessary. Our vet will scale your pet’s teeth to remove debris and show you proper brushing techniques as well.
Contact Fort Hunt Animal Hospital to make an appointment with our veterinarian if your dog or cat requires pet dental care.