Why Do Pets Need Dental Exams and Cleanings?
At Total Veterinary Care®, a health check-up includes a thorough examination of your pet’s mouth, teeth and tissues. Our doctors will ask about your pet’s nutrition, treats, chewing habits, and whether you brush your pet’s teeth.
Creating an at-home oral hygiene routine at home will maintain a healthy mouth for your pet. You can prevent plaque from hardening on the teeth simply by brushing or wiping your pet’s teeth each day. There are a variety of pet toothbrushes and specially-formulated toothpaste available at pet supply stores and online. Other dental health products include special diets, chews, treats, toys, food or water additives, rinses, and gels. Our veterinarians will be happy to advise you as to what is best for your pet.
While all of these things help your pet’s dental and oral health, the best care starts with a thorough oral examination by your veterinarian. Dental cleaning, dental probing and radiography, and dental care advice are all part every pet’s overall care.
What to Expect During the Dental Procedure
A dental prophylactic procedure involves anesthetizing your pet and completing a thorough exam of all teeth and periodontal tissues, removing the hardened tarter from each tooth, then polishing the enamel to slow the buildup of future plaque and tartar.
Total Veterinary Care’s “Enhanced” and “Ultimate” Total Care Wellness Plans® cover the cost of an annual dental prophylactic procedure. But what if your pet is not on one of these plans? No problem! Schedule a dental cleaning during February’s National Pet Dental Health Month and you will receive $50 off the procedure, if it’s not already covered by a Wellness Plan.
Call us today to schedule your pet’s oral health check-up and be sure to ask the team at Total Veterinary Care about National Pet Dental Health Month and how to get your pet signed up for a Total Care Wellness Plan. February is also a great time to take dental x-rays and to look for any broken or loose teeth that may be causing pain for your furry friend.
Finally, ALL patients receiving dental procedures during February’s National Pet Dental Health Month will go home with a free goodie bag…just like pet parents get from their dentist!
