​Your pet’s oral health plays a vital role in their overall health. Infection in the mouth can lead to disease in other organs, such and the liver, heart, and kidneys. Periodontal disease is the most common disease in dogs and cats, occurring in 85% of dogs and cats over six years of age.

Dental disease makes your pet’s mouth sore. Infections can loosen teeth and can be very uncomfortable. However, the majority of pets with painful dental problems will not show signs of pain.

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dental health assessment

Grand Park veterinarians will assess your pet’s oral health at every exam. We emphasize preventive dental care. If we notice tartar buildup or see evidence of dental problems, we will recommend a cleaning and a closer inspection. Complete oral exams and cleanings are procedures that require anesthesia, since the majority of pet dental disease occurs under the gum line. Anesthesia allows for a thorough evaluation of your pet’s oral health and any necessary treatments.

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dental cleaning and surgery

During a cleaning, we will clean and polish your pet’s teeth. It is vital to polish the teeth after cleaning to smooth the enamel surface to reduce future plaque buildup. If necessary, digital X-rays will also be taken to look at the teeth under the gum line. For problem teeth, we will determine if further care, such as an extraction or root canal, is the best course of action. The Grand Park dental team will partner with you in discussing the best treatment options for your pet.

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state-of-the-art anesthesia

Just as is the case with any surgery, we will employ the safest and most effective anesthesia and surgical protocols. Your pet’s current health, history, and blood work will be assessed prior to anesthesia to help determine the safest protocols.

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All of our anesthesia patients receive:

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• Intravenous catheter

• Fluid administration during anesthesia

• Endotracheal airway tube placement to maintain airway and deliver oxygen and anesthetic gas

• Monitoring of all vital parameters by trained staff, including blood oxygen levels, EKG, blood pressure, respirations, and body temperature

• Pain management injection prior to anesthesia, local nerve blocks, and post-operative pain relief

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Many of our patients report their pet’s energy and appetite pick up after a dental procedure. This is particularly true if the pet has been experiencing discomfort.