Dentistry

Nothing says "I'm happy and healthy!" like a flash of pearly white teeth.  Dental care is just as important for your pet as it is for you.  Regular tooth brushing helps prevent plaque and tartar from forming on your pet's teeth, both of which can lead to decay.

Our veterinarians and technicians perform general dental cleanings as well as extractions of broken or decaying teeth.  We also have a dental x-ray machine to check for any decay or abscesses under the gum line or in the jaw bone.

Some tips on dental health:

• Brush your pet's teeth regularly.  Once or twice a week brushings do wonders and if you're able to brush daily, even better!  If your pet isn't used to fingers and hands near their mouth, start slowly.  Try using your fingers to trace along your pet's lip line and gradually start to lift the lips and touch the teeth and gums.  As your pet becomes more comfortable, put a small amount of pet tooth paste on your finger and rub it along the gumline, getting your pet used to the feel and taste.  At this stage your pet may be willing to accept a brief brushing with a finger brush (latex finger covering with bristles at the tip).  If you would prefer to use a toothbrush, choose a child's brush that has soft bristles and a small head.  It may take a few weeks for your pet to get used to you brushing their teeth, but the benefits are well worth the time and effort.
   
• Feed hard kibble and treats.  The chewing action breaks up the food and treats and the pieces help scrape small bits of tartar and plaque off the teeth.
   
• Watch your pet eat.  Refusing hard foods or chewing on only one side of the mouth can indicate a possible problem with your pet's teeth.  You don't have to watch them eat every meal, but observing for just a minute or two will help you notice any changes to your pet's normal eating pattern.