Our Chula Vista Veterinarian Recommend Cleaning Dogs’ Teeth

Dental care for pets is just as important as it is for humans. Here at the South Bay Veterinary Hospital in Chula Vista we provide services for cleaning dogs' teeth and cats' teeth. Regular dental cleaning of your pet’s teeth will keep their teeth and their bodies healthy. Nearly 80% of all cats and dogs will develop periodontal disease if their teeth are not cleaned on a regular basis. Periodontal disease can lower the immune system and leave your pet susceptible to a variety of other medical problems.

As your pet ages, having good strong teeth is critical for eating, proper digestion and good nutrition. At our animal hospital we offer a wide range of services for cleaning dogs' teeth and maintaining proper pet dental health. The first step will be a thorough examination to evaluate the condition of your dog or cat’s teeth. Oral assessments may also include dental X-rays.

If your pet is a puppy or a kitten, their teeth and gums should be nice and strong. Our veterinarian will show you how to regularly take care of your pet’s teeth at home with a finger brush so you can continue dental care at home. You can also regularly bring your cat or dog into our animal vet clinic where we specialize in cleaning dogs' teeth. If cleaning is started when your pet is young, they will often become comfortable with the process and may even enjoy it. Good eating habits at home also promote good strong teeth and gums. Feeding your pet dry kibble will help keep their teeth clean. Dry dog bones and rubber chew toys are also useful for maintaining plaque free teeth and gums.

Chula Vista Pet Dental Procedures at Veterinary Hospitals

If there is a significant amount of dental tartar buildup, then dental scaling may be required. Cleaning dogs' teeth is similar to cleaning human teeth. The dental tartar is removed using  ultrasonic or hand instruments above and below the gum line. After the teeth are cleaned they are also polished to prevent future plaque buildup.

Sometimes a tooth has been fractured or is decayed beyond saving. Dogs and cats often do not demonstrate tooth pain the same way as humans. However, tooth infections are just as painful and can lead to abscesses that can compromise the entire jaw. In cases where there is severe periodontal disease or infection, our Chula Vista veterinarian may recommend tooth extraction. Tooth extraction requires that your dog or cat be given anesthesia and undergoes the procedure at our animal vet clinic. During the extraction we will constantly monitor your pet’s ECG, blood pressure and pulse. Tooth extraction is usually the best solution for a decayed tooth because it will prevent further pain and disease.

In addition to cleaning dogs’ teeth, our South Bay Veterinary Hospital in Chula Vista is a full service animal hospital dedicated to meeting the veterinary needs of the dogs and cats in the local community. We are AAHA Accredited, open for appointments seven days a week, and offer state of the art veterinary care and critical care consultations to many of the other veterinary hospitals in the region.

Call today at 619-422-6186 to schedule a dental exam for your pet.