Dental
Just like humans, our beloved pets are susceptible to gum disease and dental issues. Surprisingly, around 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop some form of dental disease by the tender age of three. At Goodna Vet, we understand the significance of maintaining optimal oral health for your furry companions.
Welcome to Goodna Vet's Dental Care for Pets
Understanding Dental Disease in Pets
When bacteria, food particles, and saliva accumulate on teeth, they form plaque. This sticky substance adheres both above and below the gum line. If left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar, recognisable as yellow-brown deposits on teeth. Over time, the bacterial infection within tartar leads to irreversible damage. This includes the deterioration of supportive tissues and bone, resulting in symptoms such as red gums, foul breath, and teeth loosening. Furthermore, this bacterial infection can spread to other parts of the body, impacting vital organs like the kidneys, liver, and heart and potentially causing serious illness. Ultimately, dental disease can inflict pain, gum infection, and tooth loss, potentially shortening your beloved pet's lifespan.
Addressing Dental Disease in Pets
Concerned about your pet's dental health? Your first step is to have their teeth examined regularly by our experienced veterinarians. If necessary, a professional dental cleaning might be recommended. During this procedure, your pet will be gently anesthetised, ensuring a thorough examination and comfortable cleaning. Our veterinarians conduct a comprehensive dental assessment, charting all existing teeth and assessing their condition, including tartar levels, gum inflammation, and any gum pockets.
The next step involves the removal of tartar above the gumline using a specialised ultrasonic scaler, similar to what a dentist uses for humans. After this, the teeth are polished using a dental polisher and a fine-grade paste. For cases where dental disease has severely impacted specific teeth, extractions may be required. Gum surgery might be needed to close any resulting holes, employing dissolvable stitches.
Following the procedure, your pet may receive antibiotic and anti-inflammatory injections. Once the anesthetic is turned off, your furry friend is allowed to awaken. Most pets are ready to go home on the same day.
Maintaining Dental Health
After a professional dental cleaning, implementing a dental care routine becomes crucial to prevent further tartar buildup. The regimen depends on the severity of your pet's dental disease and may include:
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Daily Tooth Brushing: Just like us, pets benefit from daily brushing. Use pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste, as human formulas can be toxic if swallowed.
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Special Dental Diets: Opt for dental diets designed to minimise tartar accumulation.
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Dental Toys and Treats: Engage your pet with dental toys, enzymatic chews, or teeth-cleaning biscuits to help maintain clean teeth.
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Regular Check-ups: Schedule follow-up appointments every six months after a dental cleaning to assess the effectiveness of your dental care routine.
Choose Goodna Vet for Your Pet's Dental Care
At Goodna Vet, we're dedicated to ensuring the well-being of your furry companions. Our experienced team of expert veterinarians and state-of-the-art facilities make us the go-to destination for comprehensive dental care. By prioritising your pet's oral health, you're not only preventing discomfort and disease but also contributing to their overall vitality and longevity. Contact us today to schedule a dental consultation for your beloved pet.
We do offer payment plans through credit providers. Please see our payment plans section for more information.