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Dental Care

Find out more about dental treatment

The Importance of Dental Care

Alma Veterinary Hospital believe oral health and hygiene is of paramount importance for the general health and well-being of your pet. Dental disease in dogs and cats is one of the most common conditions seen by veterinary surgeons. Without preventative care saliva and food form a layer of thin film over the teeth known as plaque. If plaque is not cleaned away regularly it will form hard deposits on the teeth and gums known as tartar.

 

Plaque and tartar irritate the gums causing bad breath (halitosis), inflammation (gingivitis), infection, tooth decay, oral pain, salivation and loss of appetite. Toxins released into the bloodstream from poor oral health can cause your pet to feel unwell and may also affect other organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys.

Veterinary dental treatment involves the requirement of a general anaesthetic, minimal treatment of an ultrasonic descale and polish, dental x-ray imaging if any issues are identified, which then may result in the removal of diseased or problematic teeth. Preventative health care before and after necessary treatment will significantly reduce your pet's need for further dental treatment. Daily brushing is the most effective way of removing plaque and preventing gum disease.

Specially designed dental chews and diets are available to supplement tooth brushing and promote good oral hygiene and health.

Small animals such as Rabbits, Guinea pigs and Hamsters are also prone to dental issues which can cause anorexia among other problems. Small mammals suffering from dental issues can require regular corrective treatments. The risks of dental issues in these species can be reduced by providing a suitable species-specific diet and ensuring plenty of forage (hay) is provided in the diet

Our qualified veterinary nurses hold FREE dental check up and monitoring clinics. Please ring the surgery for further advice or an appointment.

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