Pet Dental Care in St. Charles County
The Importance of Veterinary Dental Care
You are a responsible pet owner and you take good care of your pet. But do you always remember to take care of your pet's teeth? Pets have dental diseases and problems just like people do. Regular dental check-ups at Bryan Road Animal Hospital in O'Fallon, Missouri, combined with good dental hygiene at home, can increase your pet's health, vitality, and well-being, and help ensure your pet leads the best life possible.
If left untreated, dental disease can not only be painful and inhibit proper nutrition, but it can also lead to serious systemic issues that may threaten your pet's overall health before symptoms are noticeable. For those reasons, our O'Fallon veterinarians consider veterinary dental care a vital piece of your dog's or cat's preventive health care program.
A Pet's Dental Examination
at Bryan Road Animal Hospital
Dr. Vricella and Dr. Clapper and their staff believe that the centerpiece of good dental care is a complete oral exam followed by a thorough cleaning designed to remove plaque and slow its buildup.
At our veterinary hospital in O'Fallon, your pet's dental appointment includes:
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Should we find any issues, such as evidence of gum or tooth erosion, gingivitis, or excessive plaque buildup, we will discuss this with you and offer treatment options for your pet. We are experienced dental practitioners and are capable of offering a number of dental procedures and oral surgeries.
In Between Cleanings: Dental Care at Home
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You can prevent serious dental problems by making sure your pet receives dental exams at the time of each vaccination, again at 6 months of age, and then annually. In between visits to your O'Fallon veterinarian at Bryan Road Animal Hospital, check your pet's teeth regularly for signs of problems. Brushing your pet's teeth is the single most important procedure you can do to maintain good oral health. If performed regularly, brushing dramatically decreases the incidence of gingivitis and can increase the interval between teeth cleaning appointments.
If you are unsure of how to brush your pet's teeth, please ask a staff member at Bryan Road Animal Hospital for instructions.
Signs of Dental Problems
Symptoms of dental disease include:
- Bad breath — one of the first signs of dental disease
- A yellowish-brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line
- Red and swollen gums
- Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth or gums are touched
- Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
- Loose or missing teeth
If your pet is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please call Bryan Road Animal Hospital today at (636) 272-3900 for an appointment, so your pet does not need to spend any more time suffering with oral discomfort.
For more information on Bryan Road Animal Hospital's pet dental services in O'Fallon, please call (636) 272-3900.