Oral Healthcare    
for your Dogs and Cats    

Does your pet have breath that makes you cringe?

Is your pet reluctant to play with chew toys they used to enjoy?

Does your pet have a hard time chewing those kibbles or drinking cold water?

Have you ever considered brushing your pet's teeth or having an oral exam with a veterinarian?

Periodontal disease is the #1 dental problem in dogs, and cats often develop cavities below the gum line which are difficult to detect. More than 80% of all dogs and cats over the age of four are affected by periodontal disease, and this starts as soon as their adult teeth are in place. A combination of bacteria and food debris generally referred to as plaque build up on the surface of your pet's teeth. This plaque works its way under the gum line, and the toxins it releases cause an inflammatory reaction which can lead to the destruction of tissue and bone. Teeth loosen, and may eventually fall out.

As in humans, abscessed teeth and periodontal disease can affect other parts of the body as bacteria enter the bloodstream. In dogs and cats, this bacteria can cause heart and kidney disease.

We encourage owners to regularly examine their pet's teeth for signs of periodontal disease, such as swollen, red, or bleeding gums; persistent bad breath; loose or broken teeth; tooth loss; puss between the teeth and gums; and any unusual growth in the mouth.

Oral care for your pet is every bit as important to their overall health as bi-annual dental visits are for you. A regular veterinary checkup and dental cleaning is important to your pet's continued good health. Equally important is home dental care, such as brushing your pet's teeth at least 3 times per week. Prevention is the key to preventing serious dental disease in your pet!

Veterinarians clean your pet's teeth in much the same way your own teeth are cleaned during a dental visit. Tartar and plaque are scaled and cleaned from each tooth; the teeth are evaluated below the gum line for bacterial pockets or unseen lesions; the teeth are completely polished and a fluoride treatment is applied. The entire mouth is evaluated for any unusual growths which could indicate cancer. Finally, a veterinarian examines the teeth and performs any necessary extractions or other surgery.

Animals tend to be squirmy, and many will not allow even a cursory exam of their mouths while awake. For this reason your pet must be anesthetized in order to both conduct a thorough exam and to clean their teeth efficiently.

While nothing can clean the teeth as well as a dental cleaning, Carlson Veterinary Clinic offers a number of home care solutions to slow the development of plaque buildup. Regular use of these products can aid in reducing the need for annual cleanings and improve your pet's oral health.

We offer all of the following dental products for home care, and are happy to discuss which might work best for your animal and life-style:

CET Enzymatic toothpaste and Toothbrushes: We offer toothbrushes specially shaped and sized for your individual pet's mouth, as well as pet toothpaste that is poultry flavored! This is the best method to inhibit the buildup and plaque and tartar. One of our dental technicians or veterinarians will be happy to demonstrate brushing methods with you and your pet.

Oxyfresh Oral Hygiene Solution: A taste-free, odor-free liquid, this is mixed into your pet's drinking water for the least invasive way to keep their mouth fresh. It aids in decreasing the amount of bacteria attaching to tooth surfaces and under the gums. Fill your pet's water bowl with this mixture rather than using the tap. This is an easy solution for a pet that is uncooperative, or if finding time to brush is difficult!

Oxyfresh Pet Gel: This gel is rubbed onto your pet's teeth and gums to help prevent tartar and plaque from sticking and to decrease inflammation and redness associated with gingivitis. It does this by decreasing bacterial growth.

CET Oral Hygiene Rinse: This antibacterial liquid rinse comes in a squeeze-bottle to easily squirt onto your pet's teeth and gums. The pet equivalent to rinsing with mouthwash!

CET Chews for Dogs: Three sizes of chews are available to accommodate miniature through giant breeds. These rawhide chews are treated with enzymes which help inhibit the buildup of tartar and plaque and reduce the growth of bacteria. Not only will these help your dog's teeth, they'll keep them busy for a while!

CET Chews for Cats: These cylindrical chews feature a papery outer covering and an abrasive inside which aid in preventing plaque buildup. Give as a daily treat to keep your cat's teeth clean and their breath fresh.

Why not call today and schedule a free dental consultation with one of our certified dental technicians to discuss what is best for you and your pet?!

Good oral hygiene can extend your pet's life by 3-4 quality years!