In addition to our regular dental health examinations, our team will have a number of educational materials and tips available to help you with your pet’s home dental care program.

Pet dental health is often overlooked. In many instances, the changes associated with dental disease go unnoticed – pets may continue to eat and chew normally while coping with an underlying dental problem.

Sadly when left unchecked, common problems such as gingivitis can progress into periodontal disease and tooth loss. This in turn may trigger other serious health problems affecting other organs in the body. Neglect of the mouth can lead to chronic pain and extensive disease. Fortunately, when caught early gingivitis can be stopped through regular cleaning and good oral therapy.

During a dental examination the veterinarian or technician will thoroughly inspect your pet's teeth and gums. They may suggest a program of home care which can include tooth brushing, water additives (that inhibit bacteria growth) or dental diets and treats. If dental disease is evident a Dental may be in order.

What is a Dental?

A Dental or Prophy at the Long Branch Animal Clinic is about the same as the treatment that your dentist or hygienist does for you when you have your teeth cleaned.

The difference being that unlike you, your pet is a little less cooperative, and will require general anesthesia.

Patients are closely monitored and put on IV fluids to support circulation and blood pressure during the Dental which can take as long as 90 minutes or more.

All teeth, 42 for adult dogs and 30 for adult cats are evaluated visually and with the use of a periodontal probe. Carefully looking for any tarter or periodontal pocket that may be present below the gum line.

The tartar is then both manually and ultrasonically removed from the teeth by means of scaling and root planning.

When necessary antibiotics are injected into the periodontal pockets to control infection.

Any unsalvageable, loose or fractured teeth are removed. 

A final polish is done with a pumice paste containing fluoride to smooth and protect the enamel which surprisingly is much thinner in cats and dogs than in humans.

You pet’s face is washed and they are placed on warmed towels or blankets before being gently awakened.

Pain medication in addition to any local blocks that were given prior to extractions may also be sent home with your pet to ensure they are comfortable in the next few days.

Periodontal Disease

Grade 1 - Marginal gingivitis

Grade 2 - Gingivitis, gums bleed on probing

Grade 3 - Pockets, recession,  less than 50% bone loss

Grade 4 - Pockets, mobile teeth, more than 50% bone loss

February and March are Dental Months!