Dental Care

We have all been there a time or two – you are sitting comfortably on the couch and here comes your pet to cuddle next to you. Whilst you sit there, it hits you – the smell! Your pet has bad breath. This is oftentimes one of the first symptoms you notice, followed by changes in eating or chewing habits, excessive drooling and pawing at their face. If your pet lets you examine their mouth, you may notice yellow or brown buildup (tartar) on the teeth, red, swollen, or bleeding gums or even loose teeth! These are all common signs of dental disease.  It is time to schedule a dental exam with your veterinarian! Can you imagine how your mouth would feel like if you never brushed your teeth or went to the dentist!? Unfortunately, this is a painful reality for many dogs and cats. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have dental disease by the age of 3. Dental (or periodontal) disease is one of the most frequently diagnosed health problems in pets. 

Regular Dental Exams

Here at Town and Country Animal Hospital, our veterinarians will check your pet’s dental health during their wellness exam for their yearly vaccines. This will be done, even if your dog or cat doesn’t have any symptoms. We know that bacteria and food debris collect around the teeth and, if left untreated, will lead to the deterioration of the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth. This decay can result in irreversible periodontal disease as well as tooth loss. Pet dental disease can also affect other organs in the body, such as the kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart. The bacteria in the mouth can get into the bloodstream and cause serious infections. A physical exam combined with appropriate diagnostics like x-rays or blood work can determine if an infection in the mouth has spread. We can also help show you how to brush your pet’s teeth and recommend foods and treats that will help combat plaque and tartar buildup. So go ahead and schedule your pet’s dental exam today!

Our Dental Services Include:

• Oral/Dental examination
• Digital Dental X-Rays
• Dental cleaning and polishing
• Extractions

Why are Digital X-Rays Performed?

While our team can evaluate your pet’s teeth by looking at the visible surface, a digital dental x-ray will allow our team to see more than what is just visible to the naked eye. We can see the bones, roots, and internal anatomy of your pet’s teeth.

Digital dental x-rays for pets allow us to see problems, such as periodontal disease, tooth resorption, impacted teeth, abscessed teeth, oral tumors with bone involvement, and more! By having a digital dental x-ray, will help us find problems (or potential problems) before they become a painful experience for your pet.

Preventive Dental Care

Brushing your pet’s teeth several times per week is the best way to prevent plaque and tartar build-up. Interested in learning how to brush your pet’s teeth? Just ask and our veterinarians will be happy to help you get started. If you have a pet that won’t tolerate brushing, our veterinarians can also recommend products that will help keep your pet’s mouth healthy in between cleanings.

Dental Care For Pets in Salina, Kansas

To Make An Appointment for a dental exam or cleaning, call us at 785-823-2217.