Dental care for your dog and cat’s teeth increases both longevity and quality of life of your pet.
Did you know that pets need dental care too? Dental disease is one of the most common, but preventable, problems in dogs and cats. Prevention of dental disease consists of frequent removal of the dental plaque and tartar that forms on the teeth. Untreated dental disease compromises the quality of an animal’s life and leads to pain, infection, tooth loss, and potential infection to other organ systems.
Professional Dental Care for Pets
Professional dental care at Iowa Veterinary Wellness Center begins with a thorough oral examination and a review of digital x-rays of your pet’s teeth and mouth. Your pet will be safely placed under anesthesia during the dental procedure. We examine each tooth for mobility, fractures, malocclusion, and periodontal disease. We then remove plaque and tartar using hand instruments and ultrasonic scaling equipment, and give your pet’s teeth a thorough ultrasonic cleaning and polishing. If we find dental problems, we will discuss them with you prior to treating your pet. Your pet will go home the same day with clean teeth and good smelling breath!
Our doctors and staff are skilled in advanced pet dental care procedures, extractions, and oral surgery—your pet is in very good hands! If you have any questions about your pet’s dental health or dental care, please ask us how we can help!
Below are some of the signs of pet dental disease. If your pet is experiencing any of these signs, please contact us to schedule a dental examination appointment for your pet.
- Bad breath
- Yellow, brown, or discolored teeth
- Loose teeth
- Red, inflamed gums
- Swollen mouth, jaws, or gums
- Doesn’t play with chew toys as often
- Pain when eating or chewing oddly
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
At Home Dental Care for your Dog or Cat
Good dental care for your pet doesn’t stop with professional teeth cleanings! Brushing your pet’s teeth every day will reduce or eliminate plaque buildup and lengthen the amount of time between professional dental cleanings.
Brushing your pet’s teeth at the same time each day with a pet toothpaste (do not use human toothpaste) and a brushing device (toothbrush, finger brush, gauze on your finger, etc.) is the most effective means of removing plaque from your pet’s teeth.
We encourage the use of dental cleaning chews and treats—please call us for advice on the ones that are best for your pet or to get more advice on how to brush your pet’s teeth at home!