Dental care - your pet's teeth and gums
Research shows that by the age of two, 80% of dogs have some sign of dental disease. Find out about caring for your pet's teeth and gums by clicking on the headings of the articles below.
Looking after your pet's teeth & gums
Just as you look after your teeth to prevent plaque and dental disease, you also have to care for your pet's teeth too. Maintaining healthy gums is important. This is the starting point of any dental program. The gums protect the underlying tissues and bone that anchor and support the teeth in your pet's mouth.
Share thisA dental procedure at our hospitals **VIDEO**
A dental procedure is a common yet not simple procedure for a pet. Unlike humans, pets require an anaesthetic for the safety of the dog, cat or small animal and for the safety of our veterinary team. When we recommend a dental scale and polish, dental prophylaxis or more complex procedures like dental extractions, our highly trained and caring pet healthcare team are here to offer your pet the care they deserve.
During the video we discuss the 3 important early warning signs of dental problems as well as more advanced signs of dental disease.
How to examine your pet's teeth and gums
An important part of a dental care program for your pet is regular at home examinations. Just a few minutes on a regular basis could help keep your pet pain-free and also catch any signs of dental disease before they become a problem.
Dental Homecare
Over 85% of dogs and cats over 4 years old have some form of periodontal (dental) disease. Dental disease causes bad breath (halitosis) and pain, it is also a source of infection and can make your pet seriously ill.
Dental diets – do they really work?
For some pet’s a prescription dental diet such as Hills t/d may be recommended to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy and clean. Ever wondered how they work and what you can do to get the most out of your pet’s dental diet? Here’s some information and tips so you can achieve the best results.
The progression of dental disease
"We really need to see 'Maxy' for a dental", it's a common request given that 85% of dogs and cats over the age of 4 experience some form of dental disease. So if you have heard a similar comment like this from your vet, you are not alone. With some further explanation and photos to illustrate, we hope to help you understand why your veterinarian is so insistent about teeth and gum care.
Harry's dental scale and polish - a day at the vet
Harry is a 2 year old domestic short hair who visited us for his booster vaccinations. During a routine physical examination our veterinarian noticed plaque on Harry's teeth and inflamed gums. Harry was suffering with bad gingivitis and plaque, that left untreated would only worsen. Over time he would eventually develop cavities in the teeth, gingival recession, and loose teeth.. oh and it would probably be pretty painful too.