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Prioritizing Dental Care for Your Pet

Your pet’s oral health plays a vital role in their overall well-being. At Kestrel Veterinary Hospital, we’re committed to providing excellent dental care for pets in our community. From routine anesthetic cleanings to oral surgery and extractions, we are here to help.

The Importance of Routine Dental Care

Just like humans, pets need regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure appropriate dental health. Because many oral health issues can be difficult to detect without a thorough oral exam, routine care is critical to catch problems early.

Poor dental health can lead to a variety of problems:

  • Pain and Discomfort: Dental disease can cause pain and make it difficult for your pet to eat and chew.
  • Infections: Tooth root abscesses can be a painful and potentially serious condition. Bacteria from infected teeth may spread to other organs, causing serious health concerns.
  • Heart Disease: Studies have linked periodontal disease to heart disease in pets.

Comprehensive Dental Care

Our commitment to high-quality care includes comprehensive dental services. We perform dental X-rays with every procedure to uncover hidden issues like infections and fractures, enabling early intervention and improved quality of life for your pet.

  • Dental Examinations: Assess teeth and gums to spot potential issues.
  • Dental Cleanings: Remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, followed by application of polish to each tooth.
  • Dental X-rays: Detect underlying problems of the crown or tooth root, including periodontal disease or tooth root abscesses.
  • Tooth Extractions: Remove damaged teeth to relieve pain and prevent complications.

At our practice, our veterinary team uses general anesthesia during dental procedures to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet. This allows us to thoroughly clean, examine, and treat their teeth without causing unnecessary stress or discomfort.

Signs Your Pet May Have a Dental Problem

Pets can’t tell us when they’re experiencing an issue with their teeth, gums, or jaw, so it’s important to watch for signs of dental problems:

  • Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath can indicate dental problems.
  • Discolored Teeth: Yellow or brown teeth can be a sign of plaque buildup.
  • Red or Swollen Gums: Inflammation of the gums can lead to pain and infection.
  • Difficulty Chewing or Eating: Dental pain can make it difficult for your pet to eat.
  • Excessive Drooling: Excessive drooling can be a sign of oral pain or infection.

If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental evaluation as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications.

Caring for Every Pet’s Smiles

Every pet deserves excellent dental care, and we strive to make our services accessible while upholding the highest standards. We know that investing in your pet’s dental health promotes a long, healthy, and happy life, so if cost is a concern, please reach out to discuss options—we're here to help.

Contact us today to schedule a dental consultation and learn more about our services.

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