Pet Dentistry

Dental care is vital for pets' overall health because dental problems can lead to pain, reduced vitality and health, and higher veterinary bills for their owners. In fact, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over three years old suffer from dental disease, making it the most common pet health issue in our pet population. Practicing proper oral care at home and including it in their annual exam will help limit dental problems. If you are in the Buellton area, consider working with our team at Buellton Veterinary Clinic for cat and dog dental care.

Dental Problems and Symptoms

We gain many benefits from our pets, but caring for a pet is a challenge and a significant responsibility. Since our pets cannot tell when they are in pain and are predisposed to hide pain, their owners should schedule an annual wellness checkup with a complete dental exam. Throughout the year, you can help your pet by monitoring for brown or yellow teeth, bad breath, and difficulty chewing, as these are signs of emerging dental issues. In addition to experiencing pain, periodontal disease allows bacteria into your pet's bloodstream, which can lead to significant complications with internal organs, such as the heart and kidneys.

Preventing Dental Problems

Brushing reduces tartar and plaque buildup, so your most important role in preventing pet dental care issues is to brush your pet's teeth daily using toothpaste designed for pets. (Human toothpaste often includes ingredients harmful to pets.) Although most pets will not develop cavities, periodontal diseases that develop under the gums are common. Daily brushing helps prevent the development of periodontal disease.

Besides daily brushing, your pet's annual checkup should include a complete dental exam. These exams typically include an oral exam, X-rays, and a thorough cleaning, including the area beneath the gums to remove plaque. Pets cannot lie still for X-rays and cleaning procedures, so we anesthetize them during the process. Putting your pet to sleep allows the veterinary team to perform the procedures without your pet feeling stressed.

Dental Treatment

Despite daily brushing and annual cleanings, the exam or X-rays sometimes reveal an issue, or your pet may break a tooth or have another acute dental problem. To address these issues, your veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan that might include pulling teeth, filling cavities, performing a root canal, or other procedures.

Obtaining Care from Buellton Veterinary Clinic

If you live in or near Buellton and need a veterinarian, Buellton Veterinary Clinic team offers complete veterinary dental care services. Our animal hospital provides routine teeth cleanings and acute dental care. You can schedule an appointment for dental or other veterinary care by calling us at (805) 688-2334.