Pet dental care isn’t extra; it’s essential! Studies have shown that periodontal disease is one of the most common health problems our pets face—and it doesn’t just affect their mouth. Severe periodontal disease can also lead to organ damage, pain, and a reduced quality of life for your furry friend.
It’s More Than Fresh Breath
Proper dental care for dogs and cats is about much more than ensuring those kisses stay sweet—although that is a nice perk. By the time a dog or cat is three years old, they’re already showing some signs of periodontal disease. As the disease advances, it leads to pain, tooth loss, and a decreased quality of life. The harmful bacteria in the mouth can also spread to other parts of the body, causing damage to a pet’s kidneys, liver, and heart.
At Van Dyke Animal Clinic, Dr. Boctor’s dental capabilities go well beyond a routine cleaning. He has completed multiple hands-on training courses in dental extractions and oral surgery and is proficient in the full range of dental procedures your pet may need.
Van Dyke Animal Clinic offers comprehensive pet dental services, including:
- Dental exams
- Cleaning and polishing
- Dental X-rays
- Extractions
- Oral surgery
For patients requiring more advanced oral surgical care, such as mandibulectomy or complex extractions, Dr. Boctor is equipped to provide that level of expertise in-house. Learn more on our Surgery page.
Signs your pet might have a dental issue include:
- Drooling, chewing oddly, or dropping food from the mouth
- Reduced appetite or behavior changes
- Facial swelling
- Bad breath
- Loose, broken, or discolored teeth
- Bloody saliva
- Pawing or rubbing at their mouth
Dental Anesthesia & Safety
All dental procedures at Van Dyke Animal Clinic are performed under general anesthesia, in keeping with American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) guidelines. Anesthesia allows our team to perform a thorough oral exam, capture accurate dental X-rays, and complete any necessary procedures without pain or stress to your pet.
Prior to any anesthetic procedure, we require pre-anesthetic bloodwork to confirm your pet is healthy enough to proceed. Our in-house laboratory allows us to run those results quickly—so there are no unnecessary delays in getting your pet the care they need.
Preventive Dental Care
We recommend annual dental exams for all pets, along with professional dental procedures as recommended by your veterinarian. Regular brushing with pet-friendly toothpaste, dental chews and toys, and dental diets can all help reduce plaque and tartar buildup between visits. If you’re not sure how to get started brushing your pet’s teeth at home, just ask—we’re happy to walk you through it on your next visit!
If you have questions about our dental services or would like to schedule an appointment, call us today at (813) 269-8322.