Dental Care

Veterinary Services

Dental Care Essential to Long-Term Health

According to the American Veterinary Dental Association, 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats develop periodontal disease by age two. This can lead to tooth loss in addition to infections that spread from the mouth to other parts of the body. The biggest reason for the high percentage of periodontal disease is that pet owners in Newport Beach, CA, often overlook the importance of dental care. Dogs and cats may develop the following issues as a result:

  • Tartar and plaque deposits on the teeth
  • Drooling
  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding, red, or swollen gums
  • Hesitancy to eat due to pain in the mouth

Preventive dental care for pets in Newport Beach, CA

Feeding your pet nutritious food goes a long way to promoting good oral health. We are happy to help you evaluate your pet food options at Newport Center Animal Hospital. It is also important to brush your pet’s teeth daily. Be sure to buy an appropriately sized toothbrush and toothpaste meant for your pet’s species.

If you’re consistent and approach the task calmly, your pet will eventually come to accept it as part of the daily routine. We recommend approaching your pet and allowing him or her to sniff the toothbrush and paste first. You can then move on to short brushing sessions and gradually increase the time. Dental chews for dogs are helpful but should not be used in place of tooth brushing.

Annual appointments help prevent oral health issues

Besides daily brushing, be sure to schedule an annual dental appointment with us. We will inspect the teeth and let you know if any issues need further attention. Sedation is available if necessary. Many oral health issues are reversible with a commitment to preventive dental care at home. Limiting treats is important as well.

If you don’t feel confident about brushing your pet’s teeth, just ask us for a demonstration at the next preventive care exam. Newport Center Animal Hospital in Newport Beach, CA, cares about your pet’s dental health. Please call (949) 644-5460 to schedule a dental check-up today.

Periodontal disease

Periodontal disease is painful. Some dogs and cats will have problems chewing hard food, some will paw at their mouths, and unfortunately, most will not show any signs. Halitosis is easily diagnosed by smelling your dog or cat’s breath. If there is a foul odor, halitosis is present. A veterinary exam is needed to diagnose the specific cause.

Periodontal disease is painful. Some dogs and cats will have problems chewing hard food, some will paw at their mouths, and unfortunately, most will not show any signs. Halitosis is easily diagnosed by smelling your dog or cat’s breath. If there is a foul odor, halitosis is present. A veterinary exam is needed to diagnose the specific cause.

stages-of-periodontal-disease

Fred C. Brewer IV, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology)

Because we feel caring for you pet’s teeth is very important to his overall health, we offer a complimentary dental exam. If it appears your pet would benefit from a dental cleaning, the doctor will make a recommendation for the procedure. By placing your pet under a general anesthesia, we’re able to do a thorough job of examining and cleaning your pet’s teeth. Our dental care includes dental prophylactic cleaning, polishing and fluoride treatment and extractions, if needed. We also administer an antibiotic injection. Good dental health improves your pet’s well being and can add years to your pet’s life.