We are no longer offering USDA Health Certificates for travel outside of the country

Dentistry/Oral Service

Neglecting routine dental care for your pet can lead to serious health issues from tooth loss to organ damage. At Sand Creek Animal Hospital in Albany, NY, our veterinary staff boasts decades of experience in providing reliable dental health services to safeguard your companion’s dental health.

Exceptional Pet Dentistry in Albany, NY

By age three, about 80% of pets develop some form of periodontal disease, which can lead to pain and difficulty eating, tooth decay, or even infections in the heart, kidneys, and lungs as bacteria spread through the bloodstream. Regular dental cleanings from our experienced veterinarians can prevent these complications and ensure good oral hygiene for your pet.

How Do I Know My Pet Needs Dental Treatment?

Common signs of dental issues in pets include:

  • =Red stripe along the gumline
  • =Loose teeth
  • =Trouble eating
  • =Changes in behavior
  • =Fatigue or aggression, particularly when approaching the pet's mouth

Routine Pet Dental Care

Consider adding the importance of routine dental cleanings. Here is an example of some bullet points to include, but feel free to modify:

Benefits of Routine Dental Cleanings for Dogs and Cats:

  • =Prevent Painful Dental Disease: Dental disease can lead to severe pain and discomfort. Regular cleanings help prevent issues like gingivitis and periodontal disease, ensuring your pet stays pain-free.
  • =Improve Overall Health: Poor dental hygiene can lead to more serious health problems, including heart, liver, and kidney disease.
  • =Boost Longevity: Good dental health can add years to your pet’s life, allowing you more quality time with your beloved companion.
  • =Healthy Appetite: Dental pain and tooth loss from decay or infection can make eating difficult for your pet, leading to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
  • =Fresh Breath: Say goodbye to bad breath! Regular dental cleanings will keep your pet's breath fresh and pleasant.
  • =Avoid Costly Procedures: Early detection and prevention can save you from expensive dental procedures down the line.

Caring for Your Pet’s Teeth at Home

We recommend brushing your pet’s teeth daily, if possible. To help your pet become accustomed to brushing, start this routine when they are young. For older pets that are not used to brushing, you may need to clean their teeth less frequently until they become more comfortable with the process.

For pets that are resistant to brushing, alternative dental care options may be effective.

Alternative Dental Care Options:

  • =Dental chews
  • =Specialty plaque-control foods
  • =Water additives

Pet Oral Surgery

When periodontal disease has progressed, oral surgery may be required to prevent further deterioration. This procedure, conducted under general anesthesia, can involve dental cleanings as well as extractions. It is difficult to tell on a physical exam alone which teeth, if any, may need to be extracted, which is why we take dental radiographs of all of our patients while they are under anesthesia. This allows us to get a more complete picture, and look for any possible infection that could be hiding out beneath the gumline. With years of experience in pet oral surgery, we prioritize your pet’s comfort and safety throughout the process. Even if teeth need to be extracted, your pet will still be able to eat, play, and live comfortably, free from oral pain.

Call Sand Creek Animal Hospital Today

Take proactive steps to care for your pet’s dental health by scheduling a consultation with our veterinary team. Contact us at (838) 900-7992 to learn more about our services and ensure your pet receives the best care possible.