Your pet’s oral hygiene has a significant impact on their overall health and is a vital and often overlooked aspect of their wellbeing. At Healthy Pets Veterinary Care, we offer comprehensive anesthetic and non-anesthetic pet dental care services in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, and other neighboring communities.
A pet dental cleaning in Boca Raton is just as important for pets as it is for humans. Periodontal (gum) disease is among the most common conditions. Gum diseases manifest when there is a plaque and tartar build-up on teeth. Plaque harbors harmful bacteria, which can infect the surrounding gum tissue and potentially affect the tooth roots. This results in pain, discomfort, and the potential for tooth loss.
Bacteria from the mouth can also enter the bloodstream through the tiny blood vessels in the gums. The bacteria can travel through the body and harm organs with the highest blood flow: the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver, and even the brain. Infections, and the damage they can cause to organ systems, can shorten the lives of our furry friends.
To protect the health of your pet, we recommend oral examinations twice a year and an annual pet dental services in Boca Raton for cats and dogs. Our complete physical exams include a thorough oral assessment.
We are also able to perform tooth extractions and minor oral surgeries during these procedures.
Your pet may not be showing any of these signs and still could be suffering from dental disease.
If you think your pet may have dental disease, please call us to schedule an oral exam and dental consultation today! After examination, we will determine if your cat or dog requires a pet dental cleaning in Boca Raton under general anesthesia, or if they are a good candidate for a non-anesthetic dental cleaning.
These are necessary when your pet is showing signs of advanced dental disease. Full-mouth dental radiographs are taken while your pet is under anesthesia to reveal any signs of dental disease below the gum line.
These are also an effective option for preventive care, especially in older patients. However, not all pets are suitable candidates for this procedure, and we will help you to determine which is the best option for your pet based on their overall health condition.
Brushing your pet’s teeth can go a long way toward preventing dental disease. Some pets resist brushing, but can be taught to accept, or even like it with a little work. You can make this easier by introducing brushing when your pet is a puppy or kitten.
We recommend brushing your pet’s teeth once a day, or at least 3 times a week. Remember, any brushing is better than no brushing at all!
Do not use human toothpaste or toothbrushes for your pet. There are many flavors available that they might like, such as fish, chicken, and peanut butter, among others. You may need to try more than one flavor to find your pet’s favorite.
Place a small amount of the pet approved toothpaste on your finger and offer it to your pet as a daily treat for several days. This will allow your pet to become accustomed to the toothpaste and associate it as fun and rewarding.
Once your pet readily and regularly accepts toothpaste as a reward, use your index finger to mimic the brushing motion with the daily dose of flavored toothpaste.
We recommend using the finger toothbrush. Make small circular motions with the brush at a 45-degree angle, beginning at the back of the mouth. Usually eight to ten strokes are sufficient for any given area. Attempt to brush all sides of your pet’s teeth to the best of your abilities. If brushing your pet’s teeth is not an option, we are happy to discuss other products and methods to ensure the long-term oral health of your pet.
At Healthy Pets Veterinary Care, we have a wide range of dental products, including specialized dental diets, pet toothpaste and toothbrushes, dental chews, and more. We also have several pet wellness plans that include dental services to keep your dogs and cats in the best possible shape throughout their lives. We are your one-stop-shop for all of your pet’s dental needs.
Visit us to learn more about our exceptional team and the services we provide to keep your pets healthy, healthy and by your side. To schedule an appointment, contact us today!
