Expert Pet Dental Care in El Paso

Regular professional dental care from your veterinarian, along with daily at-home care, is essential to keeping your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. Your veterinarian can recommend the ideal frequency for professional cleanings and advise you on the best products for home dental care.

Neglecting your pet’s dental health can lead to serious complications, including periodontal disease, tooth loss, and even organ damage affecting the heart, liver, or kidneys. Early signs of periodontal disease include gum redness or swelling, bad breath, yellow or brown buildup on teeth, bleeding gums, drooling, loose teeth, and changes in eating or chewing behavior. The primary cause of periodontal disease is bacteria found in dental plaque, a soft substance that forms on teeth. While plaque can be brushed away, if left untreated, it hardens into tartar, which requires professional removal. Shockingly, tartar buildup affects about 70% of cats and 80% of dogs by the age of three.

A professional dental cleaning, also known as a prophylaxis or “prophy,” involves scaling (removing harmful bacteria) and polishing the teeth. This procedure is performed under anesthesia by a licensed technician and veterinarian, and is typically recommended annually to maintain optimal oral health. Blood work is advised prior to the procedure to ensure your pet’s kidneys and liver can safely process the anesthesia.