Did you know that periodontal disease is the number one disease affecting our pets? By the age of three, most of our pets are suffering from some form of dental disease. Just like people, our dogs and cats need to have regular oral examinations and receive regular dental care to protect their teeth, gums and overall health. This includes home care as well as occasional and sometimes more routine professional care.
One of the earliest signs of dental disease is halitosis, or bad breath. This is commonly due to gingivitis and periodontal disease, which is inflammation and infection of the gums. Gingivitis and periodontal disease are caused by accumulation of plaque in the mouth. Plaque is the soft film that coats the teeth and is a source of bacteria in the mouth. With time, this soft plaque will harden into tarter or calculus on the teeth, furthering dental disease. Dental disease can be very painful and can ultimately lead to a noticeable decline in quality of life. Fortunately, with routine dental exams, preventive and maintenance care, these problems may be caught early, addressed quickly, or perhaps avoided all together.
You can help prevent dental disease with home care, which includes regular brushing (daily is best), dental chews, dental diets, or by using a variety of other available dental products. However, it is inevitable that all our pets will at some point begin to accumulate tartar and bacteria in the mouth. When needed, we can provide your pet with a Dental Cleaning and Polishing. This procedure is an outpatient procedure. Your pet comes in for the day. Once anesthetized, we thoroughly examine the mouth, x-ray teeth as indicated, and then proceed with ultrasonic cleaning, polishing and fluoride application. You can help extend the benefits of this professional cleaning with home care, especially daily brushing.
Dental Health is very important to your pet’s overall health. We encourage you to make yourself more aware of these health risks by asking questions and being proactive.
During the month of February, National Dental Month, we are offering a 10% discount on dental procedures to encourage you to get your pet’s teeth cleaned. Please call GVH today and speak to a staff member for details.