Studies have shown that around 80% of cats and dogs have some form of dental disease. It is no wonder then that pet dentistry is one of the most common procedures performed at veterinary clinics across the country.
These procedures can range from cleaning of the teeth through to more complex orthodontic treatments.
At Karingal Veterinary Hospital and Ballam Park Veterinary Clinic our veterinarians are very experienced in a wide range of dental treatments. Whether it be a clean and scale or an extraction of a large canine tooth our vets are fully equipped. Should it be required our team can work with and refer clients to a near-by veterinary dental specialist for an opinion and treatment as required.
All pets receiving a dental treatment are first assessed when initially anesthetised and a dental chart created. This chart records a range of important measurements and observations that form part of your pet’s medical record. In the vast majority of cases we will also take a series of dental radiographs to fully evaluate your pet’s teeth. This charting and radiographs allows for a more accurate recording of your pet’s dental pathology and development of a treatment plan.
When extractions are required pain management is a priority. Our veterinarians use a range of specific local anaesthetic techniques to ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure and afterwards.
In recent times, several “no anaesthesia” cosmetic pet dental providers have started offering their services. The people that offer and perform these services are NOT veterinarians nor do they have any formal or recognised veterinary qualifications. These companies claim to be able to properly clean a dog or cat’s mouth by simply restraining the pet and hand scaling the teeth. This is not only extremely stressful for the pet but is also not effective at adequately assessing and treating any dental disease. The treatment is purely cosmetic and does nothing for the dental disease issues that may be going on below the gum line or indeed any other health problems that may be associated with the dental disease. We DO NOT recommend using these companies for any pet.