Bad breath signals an increased bacterial activity in the mouth, and warns of dental disease. Neck lesion cavities are extremely painful, and Kitty may be reluctant to eat, or tend to drool. X-rays are necessary to evaluate the extent of the problem because the entry hole may be tiny, while the cavity has eaten away nearly all the inside of the tooth. Pet dentistry is very similar to human dental treatments. Pets won t open wide, though, and must be anesthetized for even routine cleaning, which involves ultrasonic scaler, polishing, sometimes fluoride treatment or antibiotics.
Veterinary dentist can provide fillings, crowns, root canals, and even orthodontia work.
Often, the pet feels so much better after a painful tooth is pulled, she begins acting like a youngster again. Routine cleaning at home, and by your veterinarian once every year or so, prevents these problems altogether. Crunching dry food helps clean the tooth surface, while canned food tends to stick to the teeth. Special toothbrushes and toothpaste are available at pet stores designed specifically for pets. Pets aren't able to spit out foam, and swallowing human toothpaste tends to upset their stomach.