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Dentistry
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One of the best methods of prevention of dental disease is frequent dental cleaning, which involves removal of plaque and tartar buildup, just like in people. This is accomplished by cleaning the teeth with an ultrasonic scalar, followed by polishing, while under general anesthesia. Pets must be under general anesthesia for this procedure, as attempting to scale tartar while the pet is awake is uncomfortable for the pet, may cause damage to the gums or tooth enamel and makes needed treatment or extraction of diseased teeth impossible.
Full-mouth digital dental radiography during all of our dental cleanings is standard. Sixty percent of the tooth is below the gum line and is thus "hidden" - this is where dental x-rays come in. Many of these hidden problems are painful, so diagnosis and treatment are provided efficiently. If loose, discolored, broken or otherwise diseased teeth are noted during the dental procedure, they can be surgically removed.
We take pain management very seriously with our patients. During the procedure, we utilize local blocks to numb the area so that the patient is comfortable post-operatively. We will use IV pain medication to ensure they remain comfortable when they go home. We will also send home oral pain medication to be given at home when needed.
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Cleaning
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Polishing
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All patients undergoing general anesthesia are carefully monitored during their procedure (blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate,O2 saturation, end tidal CO2, ECG, body temperature).
As with other surgeries, an intravenous catheter is placed in the patient to deliver fluids, pain medications and drugs necessary should any abnormality be detected.
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 We take pain management very seriously with our patients. During the procedure, we utilize local blocks to numb the area so that the patient is comfortable post-operatively. We will use IV pain medication to ensure they remain comfortable when they go home.
We will also send home oral pain medication to be given at home when needed.
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Before
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After
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Methods of dental tartar prevention at home
Brush your pets teeth daily with a pet-approved toothpaste and brush
Give pets treats for dental health, such as C.E.T. HEXtra Dental Chews
Give pets toys designed for dental health, such as the KONG Dental Stix
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severe horizontal bone loss around roots
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Premolar with two fractured roots below the gum line
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Healthy mouth, for comparison
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February is Dental Health Month
Malodorous breath, loss of gum tissue, and loose teeth are a direct result of plaque and tartar buildup. Infectious oral diseases affecting the gums and root canals create systemic bacteremia (bacteria in the blood stream, which can infect other parts of the body). Dental disease, if left untreated, can also lead to other serious health complications including infections in the heart, kidney disease, liver disease, nasal infections, osteomyelitis (bone infection),increased risk of oral cancer, and jaw fracture from loss of bone. Oral diseases are known as “the silent killer.”
If you have noticed tartar build up, a foul odor, or your pet having trouble eating, schedule a dental with us today! We also offer a special in the month of February and you can call 1-573-636-8322 to find out details.
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Call us at 573-636-8322
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