Dentistry

DENTISTRY: IT'S NOT JUST ABOUT BAD BREATH

Routine dental cleanings are the best way to help improve your pet's breath, and they also have many health benefits. Our veterinarians chart notes on tooth and oral health every time your pet comes into the office for a routine checkup. Your veterinarian will let you know when it's time to have a dental cleaning. Dental cleanings provide fresh breath, clean teeth, and healthy gums. Oral health improves once that stinky bacteria and tartar buildup (that yellow/brown stuff you see on your fur baby's teeth) is removed from the tooth surface and underneath the gumline. Once the built-up tartar is removed, the teeth are polished to help smooth and protect the surface of the teeth, just like when we go to the dentist.

Routine cleanings, (now often called Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatments, or COHATs) help to prevent and slow the development of periodontal disease in patients. Some clinical signs of dental disease include broken, loose, or missing teeth, bleeding from the mouth/gums, or trouble eating. Having a cleaning performed on your pet when recommended by your veterinarian can help decrease the risk and severity of dental disease.

If your pet already has dental disease, they may need some teeth extracted during their dental procedure. Teeth lost during the cleaning process are often already non-viable and potentially painful. By removing these teeth, we can improve your pet's overall comfort and gum health.

Fun Facts

All cats and dogs will benefit from a COHAT at some point in their lives.
Patients receiving a COHAT at Rivertown will undergo general anesthesia for the procedure.
Your pet’s jaw bones are strong enough to break down crunchy food, even without teeth.
Dental cleanings are same-day procedures, so your pet gets to go home the same day!
Genetics play a role in how often your pet may need a COHAT. Other factors may include routinely eating canned or soft food, and pets who do not frequently chew on bones/toys/etc.
Cleanings help patients with kidney and heart disease by removing harmful bacteria from the equation.
Dental cleanings can increase the quality of life, overall happiness and comfort.

Fun Facts

All cats and dogs will benefit from a COHAT at some point in their lives.
Patients receiving a COHAT at Rivertown will undergo general anesthesia for the procedure.
Your pet’s jaw bones are strong enough to break down crunchy food, even without teeth.
Dental cleanings are same-day procedures, so your pet gets to go home the same day!
Genetics play a role in how often your pet may need a COHAT. Other factors may include routinely eating canned or soft food, and pets who do not frequently chew on bones/toys/etc.
Cleanings help patients with kidney and heart disease by removing harmful bacteria from the equation.
Dental cleanings can increase the quality of life, overall happiness and comfort.