Dental Care

The Importance Of Pet Dental Care

A pet’s teeth are meant to last a lifetime, and Lawndale Pet Hospital can help you ensure that they do. While most people would never think to go without caring for their teeth and general oral health, many forget that pets need dental care too, and they are largely dependent upon their families to provide that care.

While regular oral health measures will give a pet a pretty smile and fresh-smelling breath, the goal is even more about the pet’s overall health.

• Systemic infections — When plaque builds up on a pet’s teeth, it can allow bacteria to infect the gums. As the gums become inflamed, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the pet’s body causing heart disease, liver disease, kidney damage, and overall loss of health.

• Quality of life — Just like in humans, diseased teeth and gums in pets are painful. Left untreated, pets can become irritable, avoid eating, lose weight, and become outright miserable.

Regular at-home and in-clinic dental care promotes excellent health and well-being in pets.

What Kind Of Care Can Owners Provide?

Pet owners can do a lot at home to promote good oral health in their pets. From brushing your pet’s teeth to regularly checking and being aware of any plaque buildup or signs of dental disease, regular at-home care can prevent major health issues from developing. Lawndale Pet Hospital can also offer or recommend:

• Dental mouthwashes

• Prescription dental diets

• Dental chew toys

• Dental treats

What Type Of In-Clinic Care Do Pets Need?

Lawndale Pet Hospital's veterinarians will perform an oral evaluation on your pet each time he or she comes in for a wellness exam. If your pet needs professional cleaning to restore his or her dental health, we are equipped to offer:

• Anesthetized pet dental cleaning — Under anesthesia, our veterinary team will remove plaque from both above and below the gum line. Pet pain management protocols are used to keep the pet comfortable throughout the procedure and recovery.

• Comprehensive oral exam — While the pet is anesthetized, our veterinarian will be able to fully examine the pet’s mouth for any signs of injury or disease.

• Dental polishing — Once the teeth are clean, polishing is done to provide a smooth surface that is more resistant to bacterial growth.

• Advanced dental procedures — If diseased teeth are identified, any extractions or additional measures can be taken while the pet is anesthetized. If needed, an antibiotic regimen will be put in place as part of the pet’s recovery.

Providing excellent oral health for your pet will promote his or her health and long life, and Lawndale Pet Hospital is here to help. If you have any questions, contact our knowledgeable staff for a consultation.