There are many health problems common to cats and dogs that can be effectively managed or often avoided if timely and effective measures are taken. Unfortunately, animals are unable to care for their teeth without the help of their owners. Routine dental examinations can detect and/or prevent periodontal (gum) disease. At home dental care can help keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.
The following are warning signs of dental disease:
Bad breath
Tartar- Yellow-brown crust on the teeth
Bleeding gums
Loss of appetite
Teeth that are missing or loose
Difficulty eating and chewing food
Dental disease progresses in stages. If detected early, you can prevent further damage and save as many teeth as possible. The tartar that builds up in your pet’s mouth, and any other infected areas of the gums can have an adverse effect on your pet’s heart, kidneys, intestinal tract and joints.
Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment or COHAT
Review pre-anesthetic bloodwork
Intravenous catheter placement before anesthetic induction
Thorough oral exam
Dental probing and charting
Full mouth pre, post and sometimes intra operative dental x-rays
Removing tartar buildup to prevent enamel erosion and gum recession
Checking for any growths on the gums
Removing diseased teeth
Polishing the teeth to keep enamel healthy
A treatment plan for and problems that are found
Discharge instructions including pain control and feeding instructions
Recheck exam and plan for future dental care
Our goal is to provide your pets with a pain-free and healthy mouth. Dental disease is the most common and frequently diagnosed medical condition in our pets. We hope that understanding the parts of a COHAT gives you the information and tools to make the best decision for your beloved pet’s overall dental health to improve their quality and length of life with us.