Dog and Cat Teeth Cleaning in Texarkana, TX
We are expected to visit our dentist every 6 months for a routine professional cleaning. Did you know that your pet should also be having routine dental cleanings? Pet dental care plays a key role in keeping your pet healthy and extending their lifespan. However, many pets are affected by gum disease, an inflammatory condition that attacks the teeth, gums, and bone, due to a lack of proper dental care. At our animal hospital in Texarkana, we consider routine dental care to be a necessity, not a luxury.
Are you wondering if a cat or dog teeth cleaning would benefit your pet? Call us at (903) 793-1193 today!
Our Pet Dental Care Services
During your pet’s wellness exam, we always check their mouth to evaluate the condition of their teeth and determine when they’re due for a cleaning. Our array of dental services includes:
- Oral exam
- Dental X-rays
- Pre-anesthetic blood work
- Cleaning with ultrasonic scaler
- Teeth polishing
- Fluoride treatment
- Tooth extractions (as needed)
- Teeth brushing demonstrations
Symptoms of Gum Disease
Since gum disease is so prevalent among cats and dogs, it’s important to know the symptoms so we can detect the disease in its earliest stages. Be sure to watch for the following:
- Bad breath
- Yellow/brown teeth
- Loose or broken teeth
- Swollen, bright red gums
- Excessive drooling
- Decreased appetite
- Difficulty eating/chewing
- Swollen areas of the face
- Pawing at the face/mouth
- Smacking lips/sticking tongue out
If you happen to notice even one of these symptoms in your pet, please let us know. Left to its own devices, gum disease can wreak havoc on your pet’s mouth, and in some cases, affect the heart, liver, and/or kidneys. Gum disease is very painful for our four-legged family members, and its symptoms should never be ignored.
Dog and Cat Teeth Cleaning at Home
The best thing you can do for your pet is brush their teeth at least once a day. Start them on a daily routine as early in their life as possible, so they’ll grow accustomed to the procedure. Supplement teeth brushing with dental treats and chews to reduce plaque buildup. The key is to prevent plaque from accumulating and spreading below the gum line. Gum disease develops due to the spread of bacteria into this “pocket” around the tooth, and should be prevented if at all possible.
If you need help brushing your pet’s teeth or would like to schedule a dental appointment, call our animal hospital in Texarkana at (903) 793-1193.