Pet Dental Care in Normal & Bloomington, IL
A Good Dental Health Program is Essential for your Pet
A good dental health program will increase all pet’s comfort and longevity, and we recommend annual dental exams and professional cleanings as needed along with at home dental care for all of our patients. At your pet’s wellness exam we will discuss the appropriate dental care for your pet and make recommendations based on your pet’s dental needs in Normal & Bloomington, IL.
Pet Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease is the most common health problem in dogs and cats, and other small mammals, including rabbits and ferrets, can have periodontal disease or other dental problems causing pain or other conditions.
Pet Periodontal disease causes red, swollen and tender gums, receding gums, bleeding, pain and bad breath. If left untreated, periodontitis can lead to tooth loss. The inflammation and infection associated with periodontal disease may also damage other organs such as the heart, liver and kidneys, or lead to other serious health problems.
Dental Care for Dogs and Cats in Normal, IL
A complete physical examination and blood test will be done to assess your pets’ dentition and overall health. We can get an idea of what type of treatments your pet may need while they are awake, but a complete dental examination can only be done while your pet is under general anesthesia. We take all precautions necessary to make sure your pet is a healthy candidate for any anesthetic procedure. All risks associated with anesthesia will be explained and all your questions or concerns will be addressed with you prior to your pet’s dental appointment in Bloomington, IL.
Professional dental treatment for dogs and cats in Bloomington and Normal includes:
Oral/dental exam
Complete dental cleaning: electronic scaling, polishing, fluoride treatment, and sealant application
Minor oral surgery including tooth extractions, removal of oral tumors & biopsy submissions
Comprehensive pain management before, during and after oral procedures that produce discomfort
Carefully monitored general anesthesia and recovery
Home dental care instructions and product recommendations
A referral network to veterinary dentists and specialists when needed
Please call us for more information and make an appointment with us so we can evaluate your pet and determine whether any treatment is required.
Signs of dental problems in cats and dogs include
Bad breath
Sensitivity around the mouth
Loss of appetite
Yellow or brown deposits on the teeth
Bleeding, inflamed, and withdrawn gums
Loose or missing teeth
Pawing at the mouth or face
Difficulty chewing
Reluctance to play with toys
At Home Dental Care for Cats and Dogs
The best way to minimize dental problems in your pet is to prevent the development of dental disease. At home dental care is essential to prevention of dental disease. Dogs and Cats are never too young to start having their teeth brushed at home; in fact, the younger they are, the better. There’s no substitute for regular brushing, but feeding dry food can help keep your pet’s teeth and gums in good condition. In addition, special plaque-reducing foods, treats, and toys can help. The Seal of Acceptance from the Veterinary Oral Health Council appears on products that meet defined standards for plaque and tartar control in dogs and cats. Ask us at your pet’s wellness exam how you can help to prevent dental problems from developing in your pet.
Providing proper dental care for rabbits in Normal is crucial for their overall health and well-being. Rabbits have continuously growing teeth, and dental problems can arise if their teeth become too long or if they develop other issues. Schedule regular check-ups with us so that we can examine your rabbit’s teeth and address any dental issues early on.
It’s important to be proactive in preventing dental problems, as rabbits can suffer from issues like overgrown teeth, malocclusion (misalignment of teeth) or spurs (sharp points on teeth). Some rabbits may be more prone to dental issues due to genetic factors. If you have a rabbit breed with known dental problems, be especially vigilant about pet dental care in Bloomington. Please contact us if you have any questions and schedule an appointment for us to examine your rabbit’s teeth.
Signs your rabbit needs dental care in Normal:
- Drooling
- Difficulty eating or eating less
- Weight loss