Dental care for your dog and cat’s teeth increase the 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 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 placed under safe anesthesia during the dental exam. We examine each tooth for mobility, fractures, malocclusion and periodontal disease. We then remove plaque and tartar using hand instruments and ultrasonic scaling equipment. We 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 surgeries so your pet will be in very good hands. If you have any questions about your pet’s dental health or dental care, please ask us how we can assist you in providing oral care for your pet.
Also, we have provided some of the signs of pet dental disease below. If your pet is experiencing any of these signs, please contact us to schedule a dental examination appointment for your pet.
Signs of Dental Disease in your Dog or Cat:
- 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
- Reduced appetite
- Weight loss
At Home Dental Care for your Dog or Cat
Good dental care for your pet does not stop with professional teeth cleaning at Iowa Veterinary Wellness Center. Brushing your dog AND cat’s teeth every day will reduce or eliminate plaque buildup.
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 also encourage the use of chewing devices such as raw, meaty bones for dogs. Please call us for advice prior to using bones.
If you have any questions on how to brush your pet’s teeth, please give us a call.
