Pet Dental Care: It’s Important!

To keep your pet safe and comfortable, all cleanings are performed under general anesthesia. Tartar and plaque is first removed from the tooth’s surface and then from beneath the gum line. After each tooth is cleaned, the enamel surface is polished with a special paste that slows future plaque buildup.

At Bayview Animal Hospital, we believe regular cleanings are imperative to preventing more serious health problems, which is why we perform a thorough oral exam and take full-mouth radiographs during every cleaning. Please contact us today if you have questions or concerns about the oral health of your pet.

Because the majority of an animal’s tooth lies below the gum line, the human eye cannot detect many potential problems. However, digital x-rays allow us to see more and do more when it comes to your pet’s dental health. Digital x-rays capture superior images of your pet’s teeth, decrease radiation exposure, and provide a quicker, more reliable picture. Many of our patients have benefitted from the early detection capabilities of digital x-rays, and Bayview Animal Hospital is proud to provide this valuable service to you and your pet.

While there are many strategies for preventive dental care at home, brushing your pet’s teeth may be the single most effective measure you can take. Daily brushing protects your pet against future pain and disease and decreases the overall cost of dental care.

Our team also recommends looking for products with the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval. VOHC-endorsed products are clinically proven to slow the build-up of plaque and tartar, and the regular use of such products can reduce the occurrence of many common conditions such as periodontal disease.