As pet owners in Fort Oglethorpe, we all want our companions to live long, healthy, and happy lives. While you consistently bring your dog or cat in for annual vaccinations and wellness exams, there is one area of care that is often overlooked until a painful problem arises: dental health.
At The Animal Medical Center of Fort Oglethorpe, GA, we know that pet dental care is about much more than just fresh breath. Dental disease is one of the most common issues we diagnose, affecting up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age three. If left unchecked, the bacteria thriving in plaque and tartar can lead to serious, systemic health problems.
The Hidden Danger of Neglect
When bacteria from severe dental disease, known as periodontitis, travel through your pet’s bloodstream, they can settle in vital organs. This process can contribute to or worsen serious conditions in the:
- Heart: Leading to infections and damaged heart valves.
- Kidneys: Causing decreased function and chronic disease.
- Liver: Impairing the organ’s ability to filter toxins.
Simply put, a healthy mouth is the foundation of a healthy body. Investing in routine dental care at our Fort Oglethorpe veterinary clinic isn’t just a matter of comfort for your pet—it’s a critical component of their overall longevity.
Our Approach to Comprehensive Pet Dental Care
We understand that dental procedures can cause anxiety for pet owners, which is why we adhere to the gold standard of care for all our patients. A typical comprehensive dental cleaning at The Animal Medical Center includes several crucial steps you won’t get from a non-veterinary cleaning:
- Pre-Anesthetic Blood Work: To ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia and to identify any underlying issues.
- General Anesthesia: This is required for a truly thorough cleaning. It allows us to access all areas of the mouth safely and take detailed dental X-rays.
- Full-Mouth Digital X-Rays: Up to two-thirds of the tooth structure lies below the gumline. X-rays are essential for detecting hidden diseases, root damage, or bone loss.
- Scaling and Polishing: We use specialized equipment to clean plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline before polishing the teeth to smooth the surface, which helps slow down future plaque accumulation.
Partnering with You for Home Care
While professional cleaning is vital, the work continues at home. Our team can guide you on the best home care routine, whether that includes tooth brushing (yes, it’s possible!), dental chews, or prescription dental diets.
If you have noticed persistent bad breath, visible tartar, difficulty chewing, or redness around the gums, don’t wait. Call us today at (706) 861-0873 to schedule a comprehensive dental exam. Let the compassionate team at The Animal Medical Center of Fort Oglethorpe help secure a future of excellent health and happy smiles for your beloved companion.