Pet Dentistry

Bad breath often indicates your pet needs dental care. West Shore Animal Hospital offers comprehensive pet dentistry to maintain your pet’s health and well-being, giving them bright smiles and clean breath as well as protecting them from infection.

Why Pet Dental Health Matters

Poor dental hygiene in pets can lead to more than just bad breath. Without regular cleanings and checkups, a pet’s mouth can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. These bacteria can spread through the bloodstream and cause serious health issues, including heart, kidney, and liver problems. That’s why routine dog teeth cleaning and regular dental checkups are crucial.

Our pet dentistry services at West Shore Animal Hospital in Denver, NC, emphasize both preventive care and treatment for existing dental issues. Whether it’s a routine cleaning or more advanced care, our team is here to ensure your pet’s teeth remain healthy and pain-free.

When Does Your Pet Need Dental Care?

Dental issues can often go unnoticed because pets tend to hide their discomfort. Look for these symptoms to determine if your pet needs dental care:

  • Bad Breath: A persistent odor is often one of the first signs of dental disease.
  • Excessive Drooling: Excess saliva can signal mouth discomfort or infection.
  • Difficulty Eating: If your pet is dropping food or showing disinterest in chew toys, it could be due to dental pain.
  • Loss of Appetite: Sudden changes in eating habits might be linked to dental problems.
  • Swollen Face or Mouth: Inflammation around the mouth can indicate an abscess or infection.
  • Pawing at the Mouth: Pets may paw at their mouth if they’re experiencing discomfort or pain.
  • Yellow, Broken, or Missing Teeth: Any changes in the appearance of teeth should be addressed by a dog dentist.
  • Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums: Gum inflammation is often a sign of gingivitis or more advanced dental disease.

If your pet exhibits any of these signs, it’s time to schedule a dental exam at West Shore Animal Hospital. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in your pet’s health.

A vet is brushing a dog's teeth

What Our Pet Dentistry Services Include

At West Shore Animal Hospital, we offer a full range of pet dentistry services to keep your pet’s mouth healthy, including:

  • Comprehensive Dental Exams: Our team will thoroughly assess your pet’s oral health to identify any problems.
  • Teeth Cleanings: Routine cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to dental disease.
  • Dental X-Rays: We use X-rays to check for issues below the gumline that aren’t visible during a standard exam.
  • Extractions: If necessary, we can perform tooth extractions to remove damaged or infected teeth.
  • Treatment for Dental Disease: From mild gingivitis to advanced periodontal disease, we can treat a wide range of oral health problems.

We also provide guidance on how to maintain your pet’s dental health at home, including brushing techniques and the best chew toys for promoting clean teeth.

Benefits of Pet Dentistry

Regular dental care offers many benefits for your pet, including:

  • Preventing Dental Disease: Routine checkups and cleanings help catch problems early and prevent serious conditions.
  • Reducing Pain and Discomfort: Many pets suffer from untreated dental pain. A visit to the pet dentist can relieve discomfort and improve quality of life.
  • Protecting Overall Health: Dental disease can lead to infections that affect other organs. By maintaining oral health, you’re protecting your pet’s overall health.
  • Longer Lifespan: Proper dental care can add years to your pet’s life by preventing the spread of harmful bacteria.

When to Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Exam

Most pets should have a dental checkup at least once a year. However, some breeds are more prone to dental issues and may require more frequent visits. Puppies, senior pets, and those with known dental issues should be seen more regularly. If your pet is showing any of the signs mentioned above, it’s essential to schedule an exam as soon as possible.

Your Partner in Pet Dental Health

At West Shore Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing the highest level of care for your pet’s dental health in Denver. NC. Our pet dentistry services are designed to keep your pet’s teeth clean and healthy, helping them live a happy, pain-free life. With regular dental checkups, you can prevent serious health problems and ensure your pet enjoys a lifetime of good health.

Let our team help you give your pet the gift of a healthy smile. Contact us today to schedule a dog teeth cleaning or dental exam with our experienced pet dentist in Denver, NC.

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