VIRGIL ANIMAL HOSPITAL

Pet Dentistry

Pet Dentistry Services – Virgil Animal Hospital

Improve the overall health of your pets with quality pet dentistry provided by Virgil Animal Hospital. Pet dentistry, though it may seem compartmentalized, has pervasive impacts on overall physiological wellbeing. Many cats and dogs never have their teeth brushed, leading to the fact that over 80% of canines and 70% of felines have the dental disease before reaching the age of 3. This is a highly preventable statistic, manageable through dentistry throughout the pet’s life.

At Virgil Animal Hospital we provide Preventative Services, Palliative Care for Pets and Prescription food for Pets.

Though there are clear and apparent signs of some dental distresses, like swelling and pain, there are additional symptoms that can tell you it is time to see a pet dentist. These include:
  • Bad breath
  •  Excessive drooling
  •  Loosening teeth
  •  Depressed behaviour
  •  Bleeding, swollen, or red gums
  •  Tartar on teeth (yellow or brown buildup)
  •  Changes in eating habits
  •  Trouble chewing
  •  Pawing at face

Veterinary Dental Consultation

Whether or not your pet shows any of the above symptoms, just as with humans, it is important to evaluate your pet’s dental health at least annually. Due to the fact that food debris, bacteria, and other matter accrues around the teeth, if left unobserved, deterioration to soft tissue and bone will occur. Such decay can cause irreversible gum disease, loss of teeth, and potentially require costly oral surgery.

 

We provide the necessary general anesthesia to properly assess the teeth and clean beneath the gum line since just ridding of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface is merely cosmetic and ineffective over the long term. Dental x-rays will be performed with every dental procedure as well. These images are extremely invaluable as it is very common to find problems with tooth roots that would otherwise go unnoticed. 


Dental disease has the propensity to impact other organs when bacteria enter the bloodstream, inducing serious infections in the heart, liver, kidneys, lungs, and bloodstreams. In the event that these issues are not addressed in a timely fashion, they can lead to fatality. Combining a physical assessment with the proper lab work will determine if an oral infection has spread. To ensure your pet’s dental wellbeing, contact our veterinary clinic in Virgil and book their appointment today. Our experienced staff will not only assist with your pet’s current dental status but will also instruct you on how to properly brush your pet’s teeth, along with recommending tartar-combatting foods.

New Pet-parent? Looking for a Skilled Veterinarian?

Visit our New Patient Centre to get answers to all of your pet care questions.

START HERE

FAQs

Here are some of the Frequently Asked Questions about Pet Dentistry

  • Why is pet dental hygiene essential

    More than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the age of three. Pet dental hygiene is of the utmost importance as it helps prevent problems like plaque buildup, tartar accumulation, gum disease and tooth decay, issues which if left untreated could cause pain, discomfort and more serious health concerns than expected. Regular dental cleanings and exams can help maintain your pet's oral health

    and overall well-being.

  • How often should my pet's teeth be professionally cleaned?

    The frequency of professional dental cleanings for pets depends on age, breed and overall oral health. Most pets should receive professional teeth cleaning at least annually; however, those prone to dental issues may require more frequent appointments with a veterinarian who will create a customized dental care schedule tailored specifically to them.

  • What are the signs of dental problems in pets?

    Be vigilant of signs of dental problems in pets so you can address them swiftly. Some common signs of dental issues in pets include bad breath, swollen or bleeding gums, drooling, difficulty eating, loose or missing teeth and an unwillingness to chew toys or food. Should any of these occur it's essential to schedule a dental exam as soon as possible for your furry friend. However, dogs and cats with dental disease often show no outward signs, as they will mask pain and continue to eat normally. Since periodontal disease can progress slowly, subtle signs can be missed until the condition is in the advanced stages.

  • Can I brush my pet's teeth at home?

    Vaccinations are an integral component of preventative pet care. Their specific requirements will depend on factors like your pet’s age, lifestyle and risk exposure to certain diseases. Common vaccines for dogs include rabies, distemper and parvovirus while cat vaccinations include feline

    leukemia and panleukopenia; your veterinarian can recommend an ideal schedule.

  • Are dental x-rays necessary for pets?

    Dental x-rays can provide invaluable insight into your pet's oral health, as they reveal issues that aren't visible during a regular dental exam. Dental x-rays can detect tooth fractures, abscesses, resorptive lesions, unerupted or impacted teeth, and bone loss. In many cases, these x-rays are the only way your veterinarian can detect serious dental problems. Just because the crown appears normal does not mean the rest of the tooth is healthy. Dental x-rays must be performed under general anesthesia, which is very safe, in order for the sensor to be placed properly in the mouth.

  • How can I prevent dental issues in my pet?

    Proactive dental care for your pet will go a long way toward avoiding issues before they become serious. From professional cleanings and at-home brushing, prescription dental diets and treats, water and food additives, can all help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Along with regular professional cleanings and check-ups with their veterinarian, taking proactive measures can be key in keeping their oral health optimal.