Veterinary Dental Care

Katy, Texas

Maintaining your cat or dog's dental health is as critical as their physical well-being, contributing to a healthy, happy life. That's why Dr. Kwon and our dedicated team at Blue Bear Veterinary Clinic emphasize the importance of pet dental care. We are proponents of prevention and early intervention to keep your furry friend's teeth and gums healthy and free from pain.

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What Is the Importance of Veterinary Dental Care?

Oral health concerns, such as tooth decay and gum disease, are common in dogs and cats and have serious consequences if left untreated. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, approximately 70 percent of felines and 80 percent of canine pets have some form of dental problems by age 3. The most common dental condition affecting cats and dogs is gum disease, a progressive infection of the gums, bones, and tissues that support the teeth and hold them in place.

If not treated promptly, gum disease can progress and lead to pain, loose teeth, and tooth loss. The bacteria building up in the gums can enter the bloodstream and affect your pet's heart and other organs. Prevention and early detection of dental concerns are the best ways to keep your furry friend's teeth and gums healthy, enhancing their health and quality of life.

How Often Should You Schedule Dental Exams?

Even if your pet shows no signs of dental problems, it is essential to maintain regular dental exams during your bi-annual wellness visits to maintain good oral health. Dr. Kwon will evaluate your furry companion's teeth, gums, and mouth and may recommend a dental cleaning, if needed, to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gum line.

If a tooth is severely decayed or damaged and causing distress to your pet, extracting it may be necessary. Dental cleanings and tooth extractions are performed under anesthesia to provide your furry companion with a safe and stress-free experience.

If your pet shows signs of dental disease between yearly exams, don't wait. Schedule an appointment for immediate care. Signs your pet may require a vet visit may include the following:

Bad breath (halitosis)
Tooth discoloration
Loose or broken teeth
Bleeding or inflamed gums
Difficulty eating
Facial swelling

At-Home Preventive Dental Care Practices

Aside from maintaining routine veterinary dental care, it's important to establish good home oral hygiene habits. Just as with humans, you need to brush your pet's teeth regularly to prevent plaque and tartar buildup on their teeth and gum line, which is the leading cause of tooth decay and gum disease.

The earlier you establish an oral hygiene routine, the easier it will be. Make sure you use an appropriate pet-specific toothpaste and toothbrush. There are also dental chews and treats that can help enhance your pet's oral health. Our team at Blue Bear Veterinary Clinic is pleased to offer tips on establishing good oral hygiene habits for healthy teeth and gums.

Embracing Fear-Free Care

Pets can feel anxious during dental visits, but fear-free care techniques at Blue Bear Veterinary Clinic help keep them calm. These include gentle handling and a soothing environment to make the experience less stressful. We strive to ensure our furry patients have the best possible experience during their time with us.