Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is proper dental care so important?
A: Many studies have shown that poor dental health has been linked to kidney, liver, heart and many other infectious and inflammatory diseases of dogs and cats.
Q: Iâ™ve heard the term "gingivitis". What is it?
A: Gingivitis is inflammation and/or infection of the gums. You will notice gingivitis as a swollen, pink/red area of the gums at the base of the tooth.
Q: What is "periodontitis" and how is it different?
A: Periodontal disease starts as gingivitis (inflammation/infection of the gums) but then, if left untreated, results in periodontitis (loss of supporting structures of the tooth). Periodontal disease is the most common reason for pets to lose teeth. It is caused by a bacterial infection in the gum tissue around the tooth which forms pockets. The infection grows in these pockets and weakens the tooth, surrounding gum tissue, bone and ligament that hold the tooth in place. Our treatment plan is to try and eliminate these pockets. Gingivitis is reversible, periodontitis is not.
Q: I cannot see any problems when I look in my pets mouth.
A: Many dental problems are not visible to the eye. At Panther Creek Pet Clinic we have a digital x-ray to help us see below the gum line at the roots and jaw bone. Dental radiographs (x-rays) may be required to guide us with treatment decisions.
Q: My pet has a broken tooth. What do I do?
A: Dogs and cats frequently fracture their teeth. In many cases the pulp (nerve) is exposed and can lead to infection or death of the tooth. You can see the pulp as a small pink spot in the fractured area. If the pulp is exposed, then a root canal or surgical extraction of the tooth is needed.
Q: How is the treatment different for a fractured tooth?
A: Dental fractures are often painful and treatment varies depending on the fracture type encountered. All fractured teeth should be assessed with dental radiographs. If the fracture does not expose the pulp and a dental x-ray does not reveal any root infection, then a process called bonded sealing can be performed. Infected teeth can be treated with root canal therapy or extracted.
Q: My pet has one tooth darker than the rest. Why?
A: Discolored teeth can occur from a number of causes including developmental problems, drugs, trauma, infection or excessive wear. Usually discolored teeth are dead and require treatment. The most common cause for discoloring is trauma. The stain is caused by blood or blood products. The color can range from pink, purple and eventually a brownish/gray color.
Q: All my pet's teeth are dark; is this normal?
A: This type of discoloration can be from developmental problems with the enamel on the teeth. These teeth have thin, soft enamel and are sensitive and weak. These teeth may require sealants or restoration treatment.
Q: What is bonded sealants?
A: We apply a bonded sealant to the fractured tooth to help prevent infection, decrease pain, and speed up the healing process. All teeth treated with sealants should be x-rayed in 6-12 months to ensure no pathology associated with death of the tooth or infection is developing.
Q: What is a typical cleaning?
A: During a wellness examination you may be informed that your pet needs to have its teeth cleaned due to tarter build-up, red gums, bad breath, etc. Unfortunately, there are no "typical" pet cleanings as most of the pets have individual needs. Many of the dental procedures are beyond cleaning, but actually periodontal therapy.
Q: What should I expect before a dental cleaning is done on my pet?
A: An oral exam was performed as part of your wellness visit. An appointment will be made for your dental procedure. Approximately 1-2 weeks prior to your procedure a small sample of blood will need to be taken for pre-anesthetic lab work.