One aspect of pet health often overlooked is oral and dental care, yet it is vital for maintaining your pet’s overall health. Shockingly, by the age of 3 years old, 8 out of 10 dogs, and 7 out of 10 cats show early signs of dental disease, as reported by the American Veterinary Dental Society. Recognizing the importance of clean teeth and healthy gums, Pet Medical Center emphasizes preventive care as the cornerstone of long-term oral health maintenance.

Incorporating dental care into your pet’s regular routine is essential for preventing the progression of periodontal disease and promoting long-term health. Neglecting oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, characterized by bacterial buildup and plaque accumulation on the teeth and gums, resulting in gingivitis and, if left untreated, gum recession, bleeding, infection, and eventual loss of supporting bone. Identifying symptoms of poor dental health, such as bad breath, oral pain, difficulty chewing, or discolored teeth, is crucial since periodontal disease not only affects the mouth but can also lead to systemic complications, impacting the heart, kidneys, and liver through bacterial dissemination in the bloodstream.

At Cayman Animal Hospital, we offer professional dental cleanings, performed under anesthesia to enhance your pet’s comfort, and to facilitate thorough plaque and tartar removal. Pets are constantly monitored throughout the dental scale and polish procedure, and dental X-rays are also performed to assess the health of each tooth. Extractions are also performed if deemed necessary to improve your pet’s quality of life and oral health. Rest assured, we prioritize your pet’s safety during anesthesia, employing modern, tailored approaches and closely monitoring vital signs while administering appropriate pain relief.

Dental cleaning procedures are complemented by dental home care practices such as regular tooth brushing, feeding of dental treats, and utilizing dental care additives in your pet’s water. We regularly stock a wide variety of dental homecare products to position you for success as you prioritize optimal oral and dental hygiene for your pets.  

Regular oral examinations performed by our veterinarians are indispensable and form an integral part of our comprehensive physical examinations. Recommended for all pets over the age of 1 year, these quick, yet crucial examinations aid in early detection and timely treatment of dental issues.