The number one problem seen by veterinarians in dogs and cats is dental disease. The American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) reports that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. Aside from causing oral pain, periodontal disease can affect major organ systems as well, shortening your pet’s life expectancy. Preventative dental healthcare is an integral part in extending the lifespan of your pet. Bad breath it often the first sign of periodontal disease. Other signs of periodontal disease are red swollen gums, tartar accumulation and loose teeth. These symptoms are actually caused by a bacterial infection in your pet’s mouth which can lead to oral bone loss and pain. Progression can be halted with early diagnosis and treatment so your pet can live a longer, healthier life without oral pain. Our veterinarians will recognize these signs on physical examination. However, if you notice any of these signs between appointments, please call to schedule a dental evaluation. Our usual treatment plan for dental disease includes careful oral assessment, ultrasonic scaling with polishing and dental radiograph under anesthesia. Advanced disease may require further treatment including extractions or endodontic care. Our policy is to maintain communication during the procedure so additional needs are discussed and addressed promptly. In addition to periodontal disease, your pet may have other oral disease including broken teeth, cavities, resorptive lesions, orthodontic problems or oral cancer. Any of these problems can be very painful to your pet. No one wants his or her pet to suffer in silence. Examine your pet’s mouth often, to help detect problems early. Brushing your pet’s teeth is the best prevention of dental disease. It is recommended to brush daily. With patience and praise, you can get your pet to accept daily brushing and establish a healthy lifelong dental care routine.