What Happens During Your Pet’s Dental Care Visit?
Dental care is about more than fresh breath and a sparkling smile—it’s essential for preventing serious health issues, like tooth-root abscesses, resorptive disease, and systemic infection. Our comprehensive pet dental services include:
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A Thorough Oral Exam
During each wellness visit, we carefully examine your pet’s mouth, checking for red or swollen gums, broken or loose teeth, excessive tartar buildup, and any unusual lumps or sores. This initial exam provides important clues that indicate we need to dig deeper and schedule a comprehensive dental care appointment under general anesthesia.
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Professional Teeth Cleaning
Our team removes plaque and tartar buildup using specialized tools designed for pets. This process includes scaling both above and below the gumline, polishing the teeth to smooth out imperfections where bacteria like to hide, and applying fluoride treatment for added protection.
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Digital Dental X-Rays
Because many dental problems start below the gumline, we take high-quality digital X-rays to assess tooth roots, jawbone health, and any hidden issues such as fractures or infections. This helps us diagnose and treat conditions before they cause pain or more serious health concerns.
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Extractions & Treatment for Dental Disease
If we identify teeth that are severely damaged, infected, or causing your pet discomfort, we may recommend extractions to relieve pain and prevent further complications. Our priority is always to preserve as many teeth as possible while ensuring your pet’s long-term comfort.
At-Home Dental Care for Dogs & Cats
Keeping up with your pet’s dental health at home is key to preventing future problems. Here are some simple ways to support their oral hygiene between professional cleanings:
Daily Toothbrushing
Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly—at least 2-3 times a week, if not daily—is one of the most effective ways to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Use a pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs or cats. Start slow and make it a positive experience with treats or praise.
Dental Chews & Treats
Many dental chews and treats are formulated to help reduce plaque and freshen breath. Look for products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) to ensure they meet dental health standards.
Water Additives & Dental Wipes
If brushing isn’t an option, water additives and dental wipes can help minimize bacteria and plaque buildup. Water additives act like a mouthwash for pets, while dental wipes are an easy, albeit less effective, alternative to brushing.
Prescription Dental Diets
For pets prone to dental disease, special prescription diets with unique kibble textures and ingredients can help reduce tartar buildup. Our team can recommend a diet tailored to your pet’s needs.
Regular Checkups
Even with the best at-home care, professional dental exams and teeth cleanings are still necessary. We recommend annual dental checkups to keep your pet’s teeth and gums in top condition.
Keep Your Pet’s Smile Bright!
Don’t wait until dental disease becomes a foul-smelling, painful problem—proactive care is the best way to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Trust Gulf Winds Animal Hospital for gentle, expert dental care for your dog or cat.
Or give us a call at (850) 233-8383!
