What is Dental Disease in Pets?

What is Dental Disease? | Warning Signs | Home Dental Care | 9 Steps to a Healthy Pet Dental

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal (gum) disease by the age of three.

Gum disease is one of the most common conditions seen in pets today. When teeth aren’t brushed daily, tartar and plaque are allowed to build up on the tooth surface. Plaque harbours bacteria that can infect the gums and roots of teeth, resulting in serious dental disease and tooth loss. Unfortunately, the negative impact doesn’t stop with oral health. The bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream through large vessels located near the gums and teeth, leaving organs with the highest blood flow (lungs, heart, liver, kidneys and brain) susceptible to infection. Damage to these organs, caused by infection, can shorten the lives of our pets.

Our highly qualified veterinary nurses will perform a thorough dental exam on your pet, prior to starting the treatment. During the examination our veterinary nurses will chart any abnormalities, or concerns, regarding your pet’s oral health. Following your pet’s anaesthesia-free dental cleaning, our veterinary nurses will assist you in getting started on a home maintenance program to ensure the overall health of your pet.