Dental Care

Fairbanks Animal Dentist

The number one health problem diagnosed in 8 out of 10 cats and dogs over 4 years of age is periodontal disease. We provide an extensive pet dental care program. Preventative dental care can add 2-4 years to the life of your pet. Optimum dental care truly is a fountain of youth for your pet.

Our dental care includes complete ultrasonic scaling, root planning and polishing. We place your pet under anesthesia and perform a comprehensive oral examination. We examine individual teeth for mobility, fractures, malocclusion and periodontal disease. Full mouth radiographs are utilized to examine below the gum line. We remove plaque and tartar using hand instruments and power scaling equipment. We give your pet’s teeth a thorough ultrasonic cleaning and polishing.

Our goal in providing these services is to keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain-free for years to come. Proper pet dental care can increase the lifespan of your pet. During the procedure, your veterinarian may identify a condition that may require an advanced dental procedure. The findings will be discussed with you while your pet is still under anesthesia so that you can make the best treatment decisions.

At Home Dental Care

Proper dental care at home is highly recommended to help maintain the oral health of your dog and cat. Home dental care for companion animals should start early, even before the adult teeth erupt. It is best if owners brush their dogs and cats teeth frequently. Although tooth brushing is the best method of preventing plaque, calculus, and bacterial build-up, there are many options for pet dental cleaning home care. Other oral home care options such as dental formulated foods, water additives, and dental treats should be considered.

Brushing your pet’s teeth every day will reduce or eliminate plaque buildup. Plaque, which is an accumulation of bacteria, will progress to periodontitis, which is characterized by pockets of chronic infection, oral pain, and severe infections. Left untreated, it will eventually loosen and destroy the tooth and possibly lead to bone loss. The infection under the gum line can also spread to the liver, kidneys and heart.

Signs of oral and dental diseases in dogs and cats:

• Loss of appetite or loss of weight
• Bad breath
• Loose teeth or teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
• Your pet shies away from you when you touch the mouth area
• Drooling or dropping food from the mouth.
• Bleeding from the mouth
• Loss of appetite or loss of weight