Periodontal Disease and Pet Dental Cleaning

Periodontal disease is the most common oral health issue in pets, affecting 70-90% of the population.  Signs of periodontal disease may include bad breath, red or receded gums, build-up on the teeth, and pain while eating.  Periodontal disease in pets, just like in people, can affect many other organ systems as well as overall comfort and well-being.  

Pet dental cleaning and oral imaging under general anesthesia are essential to the management of periodontal disease. Both dental cleaning and oral imaging together are vital components of a comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment (COHAT) plan.  A COHAT allows a veterinarian to discover and treat oral diseases and pain that are often masked or hidden in our pets. In cases with advanced bone loss, extraction of the affected teeth may be indicated. To perform a COHAT safely and without pain or anxiety for the pet requires general anesthesia. Following treatment, our staff will help you and your pet with the lifelong management of periodontal disease.