Veterinary Dental Services
Preserving Good Oral Health in Pets
A holistic approach to veterinary care focuses on optimizing overall health. These goals are just as fundamental when it comes to pet dental care because poor oral health can lead to poor overall health. At Pawsitive Veterinary Care, we offer a range of dental care services to restore and maintain good oral health for dogs and cats.
Removing plaque regularly with professional cleanings helps to prevent issues such as tooth decay and periodontal disease from developing in your pet's mouth.
When you bring your companion in for an examination with our veterinary team we will take the time to educate you on effective strategies to help keep your pet's teeth healthy and clean between appointments.
Dental Exams at Pawsitive Veterinary Care
Prior to your pet's dental appointment, a pre-anesthetic assessment will be performed to help ensure that your companion does not face an increased risk of complications.
On appointment day, anesthesia will be administered. Anesthesia allows your pet to 'sleep' comfortably throughout their treatment. It also allows our team to work safely and efficiently.
We will conduct a tooth-by-tooth oral examination and charting. Teeth will cleaned and polished (including under the gum line) and X-rays may be taken.
The day after your pet's dental treatment one of our team will contact you to assess how your pet is doing. However, if you are concerned about your dog or cat following a dental procedure, please call our office right away.
FAQs About Pet Dental Care
To learn more about dental care for dogs and cats read through our answers to these frequently asked questions from our clients.
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Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?
When dogs and cats eat, bacteria-ridden plaque sticks to their teeth and can begin to form significant tartar build-up if not cleaned away regularly.
Professional veterinary dental cleanings clear away dangerous plaque and tartar and help prevent dental health issues from developing.
When pet dental care is neglected serious oral health issues can develop such as advanced periodontal disease, loose and missing teeth, tooth decay and jawbone deterioration. Surgery to treat these painful conditions can be costly.
By combining annual exams and professional cleanings, with diligent at-home care, you help to protect the health of your dog or cat's mouth and save money.
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How often does my pets need their teeth cleaned?
Depending on your dog's breed, size and current oral health condition, once or twice-yearly cleanings are typically recommended. However, pets with ongoing dental health problems may require more frequent visits.
Following an examination, your veterinarian will be able to provide cleaning schedule recommendations specifically to meet your pet's needs.
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What are the signs of dental health issues in pets?
If you notice any of the following symptoms in your pet, it's time for a dental checkup.
- Tartar buildup or discoloured teeth
- Loose and/or broken teeth
- Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Bad breath
- Pain or swelling in or around the mouth
- Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- Abnormal chewing, dropping food from the mouth
- Drooling
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What long-term problems can poor oral health potentially cause in my pet?
As well as causing problems such as cavities and bad breath, the bacteria that causes periodontal disease can also reach other parts of your pet's body - possibly leading to serious liver, kidney or heart disease.
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What should I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth clean between dental appointments?
Brushing your pet's teeth regularly and providing veterinarian-recommended bones, dental chews, and toys can help control the buildup of plaque. In some cases, a prescription diet may be recommended to help prevent dental problems.
Book an appointment with our Okanagan veterinarians to learn more about taking a holistic approach to caring for your loyal companion's oral health.
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Why does my pet require anesthesia for their dental appointment?
Cats and dogs are simply unable to understand what is going on during dental procedures and will often react by struggling or biting. Using anesthesia puts less stress on your furry family member and allows us to safely and efficiently examine their teeth and gums.
Pets are tested before undergoing treatment to minimize the risks associated with general anesthesia.
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What dental issues may require dental surgery as treatment?
We believe that many dental health issues can be avoided by taking a proactive, integrative approach to your pet's oral health care. That said, there are times when complex or advanced conditions arise that require more aggressive treatment to resolve.
Dental health issues that may require dental surgery include cracked or broken teeth; tooth decay; severe gum disease (periodontitis); jaw fractures; temporomandibular joint (TMJ); luxation; or dysplasia Feline stomatitis.
New Patients Welcome
Pawsitive Veterinary Care is accepting new patients! Our experienced veterinarians are passionate about the health of Kelowna's dogs and cats. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.