Pet Dental Care FAQs

Our Carol Stream Vet Staff Provides High-Quality Pet Dental Care Near West Chicago

In our experience, most pet parents understand how important it is to bring their animals in for routine veterinary care. But at Carol Stream Animal Hospital, serving West Chicago, Wheaton, and surrounding Illinois communities, we find that some of our clients overlook the importance of pet dental health.

Kitten getting a dental exam.

Why is Pet Dental Care so Important?

The health and integrity of your animal's teeth, gums, and mouth are closely related to its overall health and well-being. For one thing, any bacteria that may build up in your pet's mouth can easily leach into its bloodstream through injured or damaged teeth and gums, where they can go on to infect and irritate other organs, including the heart and lungs. 

Poor pet dental care can also lead to issues that become painful for your sweet animal. Plus, a problem with your pet's oral health can lead to issues that may make it difficult for the animal to chew and swallow its food, which may even lead to potential issues of malnourishment!

What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Pet Dental Health Problem?

Keep an eye out for the following issues in your pet: 

  • Foul breath
  • Loose, broken, discolored, or extra teeth
  • Tartar (hard plaque buildup)
  • Pain in or near the mouth
  • Lumps, bumps, swelling, and/or bleeding in the mouth
  • Excessive drooling
  • Decreased appetite, refusal to eat, frequent dropping of food, or eating on only one side of the mouth

What Types of Conditions can a Carol Stream Veterinarian Screen for on a Pet Dental Exam? 

During a pet dental exam, your cat or dog will be put under general anesthesia. This keeps your beloved companion safe and still while permitting our staff to thoroughly exam your pet’s teeth, gums, and mouth. We'll clean your pet's teeth as well as look for conditions such as:

  • Periodontal disease
  • Infected or fractured teeth
  • Oral cysts or tumors
  • Broken jaw
  • Palate defects

Depending on the results of our examination, we'll be able to talk to you about any necessary plans of care and treatment options. 

How can I Maintain my Pet's Dental Care at Home in Between Vet Visits? 

Believe it or not, brushing your pet's teeth on a regular basis has been shown to help improve an animal's lifespan by as much as 2-5 years! So, ask our Carol Stream vet staff to teach you how to brush your cat's or dog's teeth (using pet-safe products, of course). Other ways you can maintain your pet's dental health at home include giving your pet safe chew toys (in order to promote healthy chewing habits), feeding your animal high-quality food that doesn't have sugars or artificial ingredients in it, and always making fresh water available.

Time for a Pet Dental Care Appointment? Carol Stream Animal Hospital is Here for You!

Is it time to schedule an appointment with our Carol Stream veterinarian staffContact us today to get your pet in to see us, and be sure to ask us about any special offers we're currently providing to new and existing clients. Call (630) 462-7888 now!

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