Dentistry 

 

What is dental disease?  This disease is a progressive process with several noticeable stages.  Initially, plaque (tartar) begins to build up. Plaque is a thin film of food particles and bacteria, this usually begins to build up along the gum line.  Next, plaque will continue to build up, thus leading to calculus (hardened plaque) formation. Calculus can develop below the gum line causing “pockets” to form. These pockets allow more bacteria and plaque to gather, thus resulting in worsening dental disease.  The pockets force the gum tissue away from the tooth, resulting in inflammation known as gingivitis.   Gingivitis can further progress to end-stage periodontal disease including bone destruction, loss of tooth support and tooth loss.  We utilize dental x-rays to determine the health of the tooth and bone below the gum line.  We also perform all of our dental cleanings under general anesthesia as this is the only way to obtain the dental x-rays and the only way to clean out those pockets under the gum line.

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At Forest Heights, we believe that every pet we see deserves a healthy mouth. During every exam, our veterinarians will perform an oral health assessment.  This will help determine if your pet would benefit from some increased at home dental care or whether it is time for a complete dental cleaning.  Maintaining oral health in your pet is extremely important because untreated infections can impact your pets liver, kidney, and/or heart functions.  We pride ourselves on the top of the line dental care that we can provide our patients, if effort to keep them happier and healthier.

 

Our dental services range from routine dental cleanings to more advanced dental procedures, including extractions and oral surgery. The use of digital dental x-rays is extremely important to us and is utilized in every dental procedure.  We are more than happy to answer any questions you may have about your pets' dental and oral health. 

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