Dental Care

Troutdale Dog Dental Care and Cat Dental Care

As a pet owner, you already know that regular wellness care and routine vaccinations are important to ensuring your pet lives a long, healthy and active life. But did you know that routine dental care is just as important? According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, nearly 85% of adult pets suffer from periodontal disease, a dental condition that is a major cause of health problems in cats and dogs.

Routine dental care for your pets will help protect their teeth and stop the spread of harmful bacteria, which can travel through the bloodstream and lead to serious infections in the heart, lungs and kidneys. Here at Paws & Claws Pet Medical Center, we offer routine dental exams and emergency dental care for pets in Troutdale and Gresham.

Troutdale Pet Dental Care Will Protect Your Pets Health

At our veterinary clinic in Troutdale, dog dental care is about more than just keeping your pup’s doggy breath under control. Bad breath is a sign that bacteria is growing in your dog’s mouth, typically as a result of food that is lodged in a tooth or near the gum line. If this growth is allowed to continue, your dog may develop inflammation at the gum line, bleeding and gingivitis. A regular dog dental cleaning is essential to remove plaque and prevent the growth of bacteria.

During a dog dental cleaning, a veterinarian will exam your pet for signs of tooth decay and damage. Our veterinary clinic uses the latest technology, including ultrasonic cleaning, to remove plaque buildup. The teeth are then polished to create a smooth, lustrous surface that resists the growth of bacteria. For in-depth cleanings or tooth extractions, we use short-term anesthesia for the comfort and ease of your pet and our veterinarian. Prior to administering the anesthesia, we conduct diagnostic tests and blood work to ensure the administration process is safely tailored to the needs of your pet. For advanced dog dental care, such as root canals, we will refer you to a Troutdale or Gresham veterinary dental specialist.

Cats, like dogs, can also develop serious dental problems, including periodontal disease, feline stomatitis, and feline odontoclastic oral resorption lesions (FORL). These painful conditions can also lead to other health complications for your cat. Unfortunately, many cats do not show obvious symptoms, such as pain while eating, until it is too late and the disease has already progressed. Regular brushing and routine examinations are essential to catching a dental problem before it becomes a serious health risk.

While professional pet dental cleanings are important, they cannot replace regular, at-home care. Our veterinarians encourage you to brush your cat or dog’s teeth regularly. If a full sized toothbrush is too difficult to use, you may wish to try a brush that fits on your finger for better control. When brushing, be sure to use canine or feline-friendly toothpaste – never use your own toothpaste on your pet. We recommend a diet of dry food to help break down plaque and tartar. You can also purchase special treats specifically designed to help clean your pet’s teeth. With regular dental care, your pets will have a lot to smile about! Call us at 503-405-1476 to schedule a cleaning today.