The Importance of Dog Teeth Cleaning

Dogs like humans can also develop problems with their teeth and gums due to the build-up of plaque and tartar on their teeth. If left untreated, this cannot only lead to concerns with bad breath and pain around the mouth, but it can also lead to more severe problems such as periodontal (gum) disease and eventual kidney, heart, and liver disorders.

Read on to learn more about the significance of regular dog teeth cleaning available from the veterinarian team at San Marco Animal Hospital in Jacksonville, FL.

What to Expect with Dog Dental Cleaning

Your dog teeth cleaning will be done under anesthesia and usually takes less than 60 minutes.

Depending on your dog’s medical history, our veterinarians may require pre-anesthesia blood work to clear your dog of kidney, heart, or liver problems before being anesthetized.

Then they will conduct a complete examination of each tooth to check for dental decay and signs of gingivitis.

X-rays of all teeth will usually be done to look for pockets of dental decay and deformities in the jaw.

Our staff will probe to check your dog’s teeth for cavities, and they will evaluate the gums to check for any areas where the gums are bleeding, infected, or have become retracted from the teeth.

After your dog’s mouth has been thoroughly evaluated, both ultrasound and hand-held “scalers” will be used to remove plaque that has accumulated both above and under the gum line.

Our team will also take care of teeth needing fillings or extractions during this visit.

Once this cleaning of plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) has been completed, your dog’s teeth will be polished.

Signs to Get Your Dog’s Teeth Cleaned

Signs that it’s time to get your dog’s teeth cleaned include:

  • Red gums
  • Bad breath
  • Plaque buildup
  • Sensitivity in chewing
  • Bleeding gums
  • Infected gums

San Marco Animal Hospital of Jacksonville, Florida, has various options available for Jacksonville residents regarding dog dental cleaning services. Call San Marco Animal Hospital today at 904-399-5557 to schedule an appointment.

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We understand you and your pet.