How Important is Pet Dental Care?

Regular veterinary care can help your pet enjoy a longer, healthier life. Dental care should be a part of your pet’s healthcare package. Dental problems and diseases not only affect your pet’s teeth but his overall health and wellbeing. At New Shackle Island Veterinary Hospital in Hendersonville TN, we’re fully equipped to care for your pet’s dental needs.

Why is Pet Dental Care Important?

Like people, pets need professional help in caring for their teeth. Annual dental exams and cleaning can help prevent painful dental problems and diseases. Periodontal (gum) disease is a common ailment in dogs and cats and many pets show signs of this condition by the time they reach the age of three. Early signs of this disease can be detected in a pet dental exam, so your pet can get treated before it has a chance to spread. Left unchecked, periodontal disease can lead to infected gums and tooth loss. Once the infection reaches your pet’s bloodstream, it can damage his kidneys, liver, and heart.

What’s Covered in a Dental Exam?

A comprehensive dental exam from our veterinarian includes an inspection of your pet’s mouth, teeth, gums, and jaws. We’ll also take x-rays to evaluate the condition of your pet’s teeth beneath the gum line. Dental cleaning entails removing plaque and tartar and polishing your pet’s teeth. To facilitate the process, your pet will be under anesthesia for the evaluation and cleaning.

During an exam, we may uncover other dental problems besides gum disease such as broken or chipped teeth, abscesses, mouth tumors or misaligned teeth. Your Hendersonville veterinarian will inform you of all dental issues and provide recommendations for treatment.

Dental problems can keep your pet from enjoying a high quality of life. By improving your pet’s oral health, we can boost his overall health so he can live life to the full. Regular oral maintenance and care can give your pet a happier and healthier future.

Schedule a Dental Exam

To schedule a dental exam for your beloved kit or pup at New Shackle Island Veterinary Hospital in Hendersonville, TN, call (615) 826-0014 today.