How to Spot Dental Disease in Your Pet
Dental issues can progress quietly, so recognizing early signs is key. Watch for:
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Bad breath or halitosis
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Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums
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Difficulty chewing or dropping food
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Pawing at the mouth or facial swelling
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Loose, fractured, or missing teeth
Even if your pet seems healthy, unseen problems like tooth root abscesses, bone loss, or oral tumors can develop. Regular professional dental exams and cleanings catch these issues early, preventing pain and more serious health concerns.
Pet Dental Care Services We Offer
Pleasant Prairie Animal Hospital offers a comprehensive approach to pet dental health, with each service designed to maintain oral health and address problems proactively.
Before any procedure, every pet receives a full oral exam and digital dental X-rays. These X-rays allow us to see the entire tooth structure, roots, and jawbone to identify hidden disease, fractures, bone loss, or masses that could go unnoticed.
Our dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, and end with a smoothing polishing treatment to help thwart future plaque accumulation. Each cleaning is customized to your pet’s age, health, and specific needs, using anesthesia protocols designed for safety and comfort, even for pets with underlying health concerns.
When dental disease or oral injuries require intervention, we provide advanced oral surgery including tooth extractions, mass or tumor removal, and fracture repair. Our team carefully monitors anesthesia and post-operative recovery to ensure each pet is comfortable and safe throughout the process.
We also perform select endodontic procedures such as root canals and vital pulpotomies. In developing puppies, we can correct misaligned teeth with orthodontic treatments like incline planes, guiding proper tooth positioning for lifelong comfort.
At-Home Dental Care for Dogs & Cats
Professional cleanings are vital, but ongoing home care helps maintain a healthy mouth between visits. We can guide you on:
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Tooth brushing techniques and schedules
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Safe dental chews and toys
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Diet adjustments to support oral health
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Monitoring your pet for early signs of dental issues
Consistent home care can significantly reduce plaque buildup, prevent gingivitis, and keep your pet’s mouth (and overall health) in top condition.
