Dental Services
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| After |
| True or False 1. Dogs have 28 deciduous (baby) teeth and 42 adult teeth? (TRUE) 2. Most dogs will start to erupt their adult teeth around 3-4 months of age? (TRUE) 3. It is normal to see double teeth in the mouth after 6 months of age? (FALSE) (The patient in the before picture has a retained deciduous (baby) canine tooth. As you can see, there is a considerable calculus buildup between the teeth and significant gingivitis.) 4. The patient in the After Picture is much happier now that he had his professional prophy (cleaning) and the deciduous tooth was extracted. (TRUE!!) (His owners were also grateful that his breath was improved.) |
| The most important part of a dental cleaning is removing the plaque and tarter (and associated bacteria) that accumulates under the gum line. These bacteria release toxins that cause the gums to become inflamed (gingivitis) and eventually recede and expose tooth roots (periodontal disease) which leads to abscesses and tooth decay. This always requires general anesthesia, and is the only way to stop the progression of periodontal disease. Simply removing visible tartar on the teeth may make the teeth look better but does not arrest the advance of painful periodontal disease. General anesthesia also allows us to thoroughly clean and polish all surfaces of the teeth, perform extractions if necessary and allows a thorough examination of the entire oral cavity. *Please ask us about your pets' oral health at their next examination. We also offer a 10% discount on dental cleanings in December, January and February. |
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