{"id":703,"date":"2019-01-24T10:31:04","date_gmt":"2019-01-24T10:31:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sbahvet.com\/?p=703"},"modified":"2019-01-24T10:31:04","modified_gmt":"2019-01-24T10:31:04","slug":"its-no-mystery-the-need-for-pet-dental-exams","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sbahvet.com\/blog\/its-no-mystery-the-need-for-pet-dental-exams\/","title":{"rendered":"It\u2019s No Mystery: The Need for Pet Dental Exams"},"content":{"rendered":"

Despite the fact that we brush, floss, and see our dentist on a regular basis, not much thought is usually given to our pet\u2019s teeth. After all, who wants to look in there with all those sharp fangs? But pet dental health is one of the easiest and most effective ways to give your pet a lifetime of good health, and much better breath! <\/span><\/p>\n

By the time they are 4 years of age, 85% of pets have some form of dental disease – whether it be gingivitis or periodontitis. But this doesn\u2019t have to be the case. Regular pet dental exams, professional dental cleanings, and at home care can go far toward preventing dental problems and discomfort in pets.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sunrise Boulevard Animal Hospital<\/span><\/a> brings you the basics of pet dental exams, here. And we\u2019re looking forward to helping give your pet a lifetime of good oral health. <\/span><\/p>\n

Pet Dental Exams Decoded<\/span><\/h3>\n

Pet dental exams are the first step in preventing dental disease. More than foul breath, dental disease can cause significant pain for your pet, including bleeding, inflamed gums, fractured teeth, and even damage to the heart, liver and kidneys. <\/span><\/p>\n

Like any physical exam, pet dental exams begins with a medical history. Your veterinarian will ask about your pet\u2019s breath, any trouble eating, drooling, or pawing at the mouth – any of which could signal dental disease. <\/span>
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Your veterinarian will examine your pet\u2019s mouth and throat for any swelling or abnormalities of the lips and tongue. Your pet\u2019s gums and teeth will be inspected and any bleeding, redness, or swollen gums noted. <\/span><\/p>\n

Recommendations will then be given for follow up care once the initial evaluation is completed. Most of the time, these aspects of a dental exam can be performed without sedation. But for a complete evaluation of all the internal structures of the teeth, pet dental exams must be continued under anesthesia. <\/span><\/p>\n

A Professional Dental Cleaning<\/span><\/h3>\n

Just like us, pets need dental cleanings regularly in order to get all the benefits of a healthy mouth. Since we need your pet\u2019s full cooperation, general anesthesia is necessary for a safe and effective examination and cleaning. <\/span><\/p>\n

During your pet\u2019s dental exam under anesthesia, we will provide the following: <\/span><\/p>\n