One of the cornerstones of good health in both people and pets is active dental care. Apollo Pet Hospital & Resort supplies pet dental services including dental exams, cleaning and polishing, and tooth extractions.
Why Dentistry is Important for the Life of Your Pet
Dental issues seen in people are similar to those we see in pets. Imagine if you had never used a toothbrush or visited the dentist yourself. You would expect your teeth to have decay and your mouth to be extremely sore, making it difficult to eat. It is also very likely that you would have some level of periodontal disease developing in your mouth. All of these issues will occur in an animal that has never had dental care.
As with people, oral disease in pets begins with bacteria in the mouth that harden and form plaque that adhere to teeth. If not removed through regular care and cleaning, these bacteria will accumulate, harden into tartar, and can lead to the development of periodontal disease. Once periodontal disease is established, the constant exposure to these bacteria can potentially cause damage to major organs of the body such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Our approach to pet dental care starts with regular dental cleanings and exams when your pets are young to prevent the formation of dental disorders. During our examination, we look for signs of disease such as fractured teeth, worn areas of enamel due to chewing, plaque, tartar, inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), abnormal growths or masses of the gums or mouth, tooth discoloration, infected teeth, and more. We will then determine if further treatment is necessary.
We recommend regular dental checkups and cleanings at least every 1 to 2 years in most cases. Some pets, however, require more frequent cleanings. Brushing your pet’s teeth in between cleanings and supplying them with oral hygiene chews are additional preventive measures.
If you notice your pet having the following signs of dental disease, please call and schedule an appointment so that we may evaluate the condition as soon as possible.
- Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth
- Bad breath
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Broken or loose teeth
- Gum recession and/or gum swelling
- Pain in or around the mouth
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
- Swelling of the face
- Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
- Weight loss
We provide dental health care services and screenings to pets in the Huntsville area including Meridianville, Hazel Green, Lacey’s Spring, Decatur, and other nearby communities.