Some pet health challenges are easy enough to spot at a glance, but dental and oral issues can sneak up on your beloved friend before you notice any obvious signs of trouble. Whether your pet needs immediate treatment for an acute dental condition or regular preventative exams to keep trouble at bay, he can get the care he needs here at Miami Shores Animal Clinic. Our veterinary clinic provides comprehensive dental examinations and treatment for pets throughout North Dade and North Shore.
Common Pet Dental Problems
Pets use their teeth, not just for eating, but also for lifting and carrying objects. This exposes their dental structures to a fair amount of everyday abuse. Your pet is also vulnerable to many of the same dental and oral diseases that humans might encounter. Some of the most common pet dental problems you need to be aware of include:
-
- Periodontal disease – Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the gum tissues surrounding the teeth. The inflammation is actually an immune response to bacteria which have been drawn to plaque and tartar on the tooth surfaces. Over time, the tissues that hold the teeth in place weaken, allowing the teeth to fall out.
- Fractured teeth – Fractured teeth can occur all too easily in the animal world. A cracked or broken tooth can be extremely painful if the nerve tissue within the tooth is exposed. Your pet may find it difficult or even impossible to eat as a result. To make matters worse, the break in the tooth may allow bacteria to infect the pulp chamber and jawbone.
- Oral cancer – Pets can develop oral cancer just as humans can. Oral cancer can develop quite rapidly, becoming a life-threatening situation before many owners can even see any signs of a tumor.
Our Veterinarian Can Protect Your Pet’s Mouth
Our Miami Shores veterinarian, Dr. Cameau, can provide your pet with a lifetime of superior dental care. We administer annual or twice-annual dental exams to identify fractured teeth, periodontal disease, oral cancer, or any other threats to your pet’s oral health. If our vet sees a problem that requires extraction, surgery, antibiotics or other treatment, we will discuss your options with you and proceed with the appropriate care. Our dental cleanings remove tartar above and below the gum line, giving bacteria less reason to flock to the teeth and cause periodontal disease.
Call Our Veterinary Clinic Today
Give your pet in North Dade or North Shore the dental health he needs. Call our veterinary clinic at (305) 757-3030 today!