Pet Dental Care in Yorktown Heights, NY
At Heights Hospital for Animals, we understand that your pet’s dental health is a crucial aspect of their overall well-being. That’s why we provide expert pet dental care in Yorktown Heights, NY, designed to keep your furry companions happy, healthy, and free from dental disease. Led by Dr. Aparna Modi and Licensed Veterinary Technologist Victoria Daley, our experienced team is dedicated to offering the highest standard of overall dental and veterinary care, from routine cleanings to surgical extractions.
What is Pet Dental Care, and Why Is It Important for Pets?
Just like humans, pets require regular dental care to maintain their health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to more than just bad breath; it can result in serious health issues like painful infections, tooth loss, and even heart disease. At Heights Hospital for Animals, we offer comprehensive pet dental care that focuses on prevention, routine cleanings, and effective treatments for dental disease. By addressing dental issues early, we can help your pet live a longer, healthier, happier life.
What Services Are Provided for Veterinary Dental Care?
We’re proud to offer a full range of veterinary services to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy. These services include:
- Routine dental cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup
- Digital dental X-rays for accurate diagnosis of hidden dental issues
- Tooth extractions when necessary
- Treatment of periodontal disease
- Preventive care education to help you maintain your pet’s dental health at home
Our team uses the latest technology to ensure your pet receives the best possible care in a comfortable and stress-free environment.
Does My Pet Have To Go Under Anesthesia To Get Dental Care? Is That Safe?
To ensure a thorough evaluation of your pet’s dental health, including full-mouth x-rays, scaling above and below the gum line, and any necessary treatments, general anesthesia is required. We prioritize the safety and comfort of all our patients by taking several important precautions:
- Comprehensive Physical Exam: Each pet receives a full physical examination that assesses their teeth, gums, heart, and lungs.
- Bloodwork: We conduct blood tests to check the function of the kidneys, liver, red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells.
- Personalized Anesthetic Plan: An individualized anesthetic plan is created based on your pet’s specific needs.
- Dedicated Monitoring: A staff member is assigned solely to monitor your pet while they are under anesthesia, in addition to the team member performing the dental procedure.
- Advanced Monitoring Equipment: We use the latest anesthetic monitoring technology to track vital signs, including blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, ECG, and blood oxygen levels.
For pets with additional health concerns, such as heart murmurs, an echocardiogram may be required to evaluate their fitness for anesthesia. Rest assured, we take every measure to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for your pet during their dental care.
How Often Should My Pet Receive Dental Cleanings?
Most pets need annual dental cleanings, but depending on your pet’s breed, age, and dental health, more frequent cleanings may be necessary. Pets prone to dental issues benefit from more regular visits to catch potential problems before they become serious. Routine cleanings allow our team to maintain your pet’s dental health and prevent costly and painful dental diseases.
What Dental Problems Are Common in Pets?
At Heights Hospital for Animals, we commonly treat dental issues such as:
- Periodontal disease (gum disease)
- Tooth decay
- Tooth fractures from injury or chewing on hard objects
- Infections in the teeth or gums
- Feline Oral Resorptive Lesions (FORLs)
Our veterinary dental care services address these issues with preventive treatments and corrective procedures to ensure your pet stays comfortable and healthy.
What Are the Signs of Dental Disease in Pets?
It’s important to recognize the signs of dental disease in pets early. Common indicators include:
- Bad breath
- Discolored teeth
- Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
However, it’s also important to note that pets are notorious for hiding signs of dental disease. If your pet is showing any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule a dental exam. Early detection is key to preventing more serious health issues.
How Can I Maintain My Pet’s Dental Health at Home?
Maintaining your pet’s dental health between professional cleanings is essential. Here are some tips:
- Brush your pet’s teeth regularly using pet-safe toothpaste
- Provide dental treats or chews designed to reduce plaque buildup
- Schedule routine dental check-ups to monitor their oral health
Our team will guide you through at-home dental care techniques that suit your pet’s needs, ensuring their dental health is maintained year-round.
At What Age Should I Start Dental Care for My Pet?
We recommend starting home dental care for your pet as early as four months old. Early dental care helps prevent the onset of dental problems and makes future dental visits easier and less stressful for your pet. Establishing a dental routine early on will ensure your pet enjoys good oral health throughout their life.
Keep Your Pet’s Smile Bright with Heights Hospital for Animals
Your pet deserves the best care, and their dental health is an important part of their overall well-being. At Heights Hospital for Animals, we provide comprehensive pet dental care in Yorktown Heights, NY, to help your pet live a healthier, happier life. Don’t wait for dental issues to arise—contact us today at (914) 962-5579 or visit our clinic at 1865 Commerce St, Yorktown Heights, NY, to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better dental health for your pet.