Practice News
 Pet Smile MonthThursday 10th April, 2008
This month we are pushing hard to give our clients a brighter smile! Dental disease is an all too common problem we see in more than 70% of adult dogs in cats coming through our doors. That brown discolouration and bad breath is not normal or acceptable –it’s a result of the poor diets, lack of work (chewing +grinding) and our reluctance to clean their teeth on a daily basis. And yes- it is uncomfortable for them -our pets are programmed to hide discomfort –it’s a sign of weakness after all. Chances are they may be eating on the other side of their mouths until the disease becomes quite advanced. It’s often those hard to see molar teeth at the back of their mouths that are worst affected – why not try to have a look! (If safe to do so !!!).
The benefits go deeper than just a fresher breath. Many of our clients come for their Post-dental check ups reporting there pet has been given a new lease of life –free from the chronic discomfort of periodontal disease or even a grumbling abscess. The pus and infection which comes hand in hand with dental disease is also a danger especially in older patients where bacteria in the gums can enter the blood stream and land on heart valves and kidney tubules causing damage to these organs.
Yes it usually will involve a short anaesthetic but with a thorough check over and, if necessary, blood test prior to this it is a very very low risk procedure. Cost is also often a concern for clients putting off recommended dental treatment. It is often a false economy to do this as a scale and polish this year may negate the need for several extractions next year if the mouth has deteriorated to the point where the teeth cannot be preserved. It’s also worth checking with your Insurance Company –many will now cover for dental treatment –especially if any traumatic injuries have occurred to the teeth eg.chips and fractures.
Why not call in and make an appointment for a free nurse dental assessment this month.
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