Veterinary Dentistry in Yuma, AZ | Palo Verde Pet Clinic

Dental health is a crucial part of a pet’s overall health. Just like humans, pet dental health issues can cause other health complications. Having your pet’s dental health checked regularly can help detect early signs of teeth or gum issues.

Early detection is vital for effective treatment. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats show signs of oral disease. Learn more about canine and feline dental.

Veterinary Dentistry

Veterinary dentistry involves all aspects of oral health care, including cleaning, extraction, filing, and adjustment of teeth. A board-certified veterinary dentist or a veterinarian conducts dental procedures.

Dental care begins with a comprehensive oral exam. Radiographs may be required to evaluate jaw health and tooth roots and to examine below the gum line. Dental diseases usually develop below the gum line. Dental cleaning is performed under anesthesia, and it includes scaling and polishing.

Professional Teeth Cleaning for Dogs and Cats at Palo Verde Pet Clinic includes:

Exam/Consultation
Pre-Anesthetic bloodwork – to test organ function
IV Fluids, General Anesthesia & Electronic Monitoring
Digital Dental X-Rays – to evaluate periodontal disease, fractured teeth & oral cancer
Thorough professional teeth cleaning (prophy) & polishing

Common Pet Dental Issues

Canine and feline dental issues are very similar to those of humans. Common issues include:

Dental cavities
Periodontal diseases
Broken teeth
Fractured or broken jaw
Oral cysts or tumors
Infected teeth or abscesses
Dental misalignment or malocclusion
Palate deformities

Signs Your Pet Needs Dental Care

An annual dental checkup will help look for early signs of teeth and gum issues. Some signs could indicate your pet needs immediate dental care. They include:

Loose or broken teeth
Bad breath
Discolored teeth
Teeth covered in tartar
Retained baby teeth or extra teeth
Excessive drooling
Abnormal chewing or dropping food
Refusal to eat or reduced appetite
Oral bleeding and swelling
Signs of oral pain

Pets often become irritable when they are in pain. Changes in behavior can indicate that you need to visit the vet at Palo Verde Pet Clinic.

Canine and Feline Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common oral problem in canines and felines. By the time your pet is three years old, it may have experienced some form of gum disease. The condition worsens as the pet ages.

Effective preventive measures are necessary to reduce the risk of advanced periodontal disease. Early treatment is vital to prevent severe pain and oral health issues. Gum disease can lead to health issues such as liver, kidney, and heart complications.

Your Pet’s Oral Health

Prevention is the most effective way to protect your pet’s dental health. There are things you can do to protect your pet’s oral health. Regular brushing of your pet’s teeth can help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. Brushing your pet’s teeth daily may not be possible, but you should strive to do it several times a week.

Scheduling regular dental cleaning is helpful. Talk to your vet about the best dental products for your pet. Dental-specific diet treats and toys are effective for keeping pets’ teeth and gums healthy.

Examining your pet’s mouth regularly can help you spot issues that may need medical attention. If you notice signs or symptoms of dental health issues, visit your veterinarian as soon as possible. The sooner you address dental issues, the higher the chances of a good outcome.

Professional veterinary teeth cleaning and oral examination are important parts of maintaining your pet's health. We know that providing the best care for your dog or cat is important to you and at Palo Verde Pet Clinic, we offer comprehensive and state-of-the-art veterinary dental cleanings and exams.

For more about canine and feline dental, visit Palo Verde Pet Clinic at our office in Yuma, Arizona. Call (928) 224-3131 to book an appointment today.