Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment
Good oral hygiene is important for the overall health of our pets.
Dental infections can negatively affect the function of the heart, liver, and kidneys. Studies have shown that pets with regular dental care live on average 2 years longer than their counterparts! Pets with dental disease seldom exhibit obvious pain to their family members, resulting in many animals living with undiagnosed pain.
We strive to offer affordable dental care for our patients as part of our health and wellness program. At Riverside Animal Hospital, we recommend digital dental radiology to all of our patients. Digital X-rays allow us to quickly evaluate dental disease that is below the surface of the crown which is where the majority of dental disease lives. Several of our veterinarians have a special interest and additional training in oral surgery. Following dental extractions or oral surgery, pain control is very important! We utilize a combination of pain medications to help your pet recover as comfortably and quickly as possible.
Daily dental care for your pet
It is very important that you begin brushing your pet’s teeth early and make it fun! If your pet does not allow brushing, dental chews, water additives and supplements can be given to improve dental health. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) has a list of approved products on their website that has been shown to be effective in maintaining and improving oral health.
Is a dental procedure right for your dog?
Talk to one of our veterinarians about whether a comprehensive oral health analysis and treatment is right for your dog. We take into account the overall health of all of our patients. Blood work is recommended prior to anesthesia but other tests may be recommended if your pet has comorbidities in addition to dental disease. Other common issues in our geriatric patients include heart and kidney disease resulting in a more comprehensive work up prior to anesthesia.