Dental | West Ridge Animal Health Center

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a keystone of health

Advanced dentistry for dogs and cats.

Without good dental care, your pet is at high risk for developing periodontal disease, which is likely to be present in the beginning stages in cats and dogs by the age of three. Plaque, along with bacteria, accumulates on tooth surfaces and the gum line, hardening over time. If not removed periodically, this leads to tooth decay, infection, and destabilization of root structure as bone deterioration occurs.

good dental hygiene is as important to pets as it is to humans.

no pain, know health

Eventually, periodontal disease causes chronic pain and tooth loss. If that’s not harmful enough to your pet’s health and well-being, there’s also the potential for bacteria present in the mouth to cause heart disease and damage to the liver and kidneys. Making an appointment for a physical examination of your pet’s teeth is essential to begin a comprehensive program to keep them strong and healthy for a lifetime.

preventative pet dental care at west ridge animal health center

Setting up a regular dental care program with your veterinarian to monitor your pet’s dental health is best started early in their life. Preventative care for your kitten or puppy, along with home maintenance practices, such as regular tooth brushing and offering veterinary approved dental treats, is highly recommended.

IV catheter and fluids

Fluids are administered throughout the patient’s procedure via intravenous access, and the IV also allows administration of medications to minimize pain, control blood flow and heart rate, and deepen anesthesia when necessary.

A CBC and chemistry profile are necessary before administering anesthesia, as this informs us about blood counts and organ function. This helps to determine the best choice of anesthesia and medications to administer after the procedure.

pre-anesthetic blood testing

full-mouth radiography

In order to detect disease hidden below the gum line, where 90% of dental problems occur, we take digital x-rays of your pet’s entire mouth. If there are problems that were not detected during the visual inspection, such as root abscesses, fractures, etc., they will be addressed at that time.

injectable medication

Antibiotics, pain medication, and sedatives are administered prior to the anesthesia to ensure the patient's overall comfort and well-being.

general anesthesia and patient monitoring

During your pet’s dental procedure, they will be unconscious from the anesthesia and intubated. Throughout this time, their vital signs will be monitored, including ECG, oxygen and CO2 levels, and blood pressure.

dental cleaning and polishing

Your pet’s teeth will be thoroughly cleaned using an ultrasonic scaler, then polished to a smooth surface to help reduce plaque buildup in the future. A final check is done to detect periodontal pockets, fractures, tooth mobility, and any other disorders present.

full service pet dental care

more life. more love. more memories.

If oral surgery, unforeseen extractions, medications, or anesthesia is indicated, additional fees will be added. Contact us today to schedule a dental exam or cleaning for your pet and get a head start on their preventive care!