VETERINARIAN STATEN ISLAND, NY

Dental

VETERINARIAN STATEN ISLAND, NY

Benefits of Veterinary Dentistry

Why might my pet needs a dental cleaning? 

Ensuring your pet’s dental well-being is crucial for their overall health. 
Periodontal disease causes many issues, and they aren’t limited to inside the mouth. 

The mouth is full of bacteria and creates a film over the teeth known as plaque. Over time, this plaque thickens and mineralizes, becoming a more solid rough material called tartar. Bacteria, plaque and tartar are all irritating to the gums (gingiva) and will cause inflammation and infection. This is what is known as gingivitis. Gingivitis is painful! Over time, unchecked periodontal disease can result in tooth decay, and when the tooth begins to break down it causes more and more discomfort. The root and nerves of the tooth can eventually be affected as it breaks down, and that’s when it becomes a much more serious situation. Root exposure is incredibly painful, and all of that bacteria can lead to the formation of tooth root abscesses. These are pockets of bacteria that can be visible in and out of the mouth, sometimes rupturing on the outside of the face. 

When bacteria is left to multiply and travel into deeper tissues, it makes it’s way into the bloodstream. At that point it causes issues in the rest of the body- severe periodontal disease has been proven to affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. s

What can I do at home?

The old saying that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Tartar buildup can be slowed down by regular teeth cleaning. Many pets will not tolerate a toothbrush and toothpaste the way humans do, but if they are gradually conditioned to become used to them it can help. When choosing a toothbrush for your pet, avoid any excessively hard, abrasive material that can feel uncomfortable in the mouth. Soft finger brushes are effective, and even a gauze pad wrapped around your finger can make a difference. The action of applying friction against the teeth is more important than the presence of toothpaste, which many animals don’t like. If they do tolerate toothpaste, be sure to use a pet toothpaste- never a human one! The best choices in pet toothpaste contain enzymes to help break down bacteria.

If you are able to brush your pets teeth by hand, it will only make a significant difference if done almost daily. Occasional brushing at home will not make an impact significant enough, and not let the patient be used to the process enough to be worth the stress.

If your pet doesn’t allow it, or you aren’t able to clean their teeth at home- don’t worry! Many owners are not able to. Similar to enzymatic toothpaste mentioned above, there are enzymatic chews that can provide benefits comparable to brushing.

 No matter the level of at-home care you are able to do, it’s important that your pet’s teeth are examined routinely. Check them at home to see if you notice any signs of periodontal disease, and have your pet examined regularly by your vet to catch this nasty disease process early.

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VETERINARIAN STATEN ISLAND, NY

What happens during a dental cleaning?

Many pets, even despite care at home, will still develop periodontal disease. Certain breeds and individual pets are especially genetically prone to these issues. In the event your pet needs a dental cleaning, this is the process: First, your pet will be evaluated to ensure it is safe to put them under anesthesia. Before anything else, we will examine them thoroughly and run diagnostic tests to minimize any risk associated with anesthesia. Anesthesia is the safest, most effective way to clean the teeth. If they are deemed a good candidate, we proceed with the cleaning. The teeth will be evaluated more closely than is possible with an awake patient, scaled and polished. Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface, and polishing smooths that surface so that bacteria cannot attach to it as easily. If necessary, painful diseased and decaying teeth will be extracted. Many pet owners are upset by the possibility that teeth may be removed- rest assured, this is only done when absolutely necessary and when it is certain that the pet will be healthier and in less pain without the tooth. We offer dental x-rays, which allow us to see the entire tooth and it’s root from every angle and evaluate them very thoroughly to determine if extraction is appropriate. When the procedure is done, your pet will wake up closely monitored by our staff, and typically go home the same day.

Our Services

At Animal House Veterinary Hospital, we offer a comprehensive range of veterinary services to meet all your pet’s needs under one roof. Our skilled veterinarians are well-equipped to provide:
Dental

VETERINARIAN STATEN ISLAND, NY

Why Choose Animal House Veterinary Hospital for your Pet's Dental Issues?

Our team of skilled veterinarians and certified technicians specialize in delivering top-notch care for your cherished pets’ oral health. Whether it’s regular cleanings or complex procedures, we possess the expertise and proficiency to handle a broad spectrum of oral concerns.

At Animal House Veterinary Hospital, we’re dedicated to guaranteeing your pet’s oral well-being receives the utmost attention. With our advanced technology, personalized approach, and experienced staff, you can rely on us to address your pet’s oral needs with precision and empathy.