Dental Care in Boca Raton, FL
Up to 95% of all cats and dogs over 2 years old may suffer from periodontal (dental) disease. At Central Animal Hospital, we offer complete dental care to protect your pet’s teeth, gums, and overall health.
Did You Know?
Periodontal disease starts when plaque, a mixture of bacteria and food debris, and tartar build up on teeth. This buildup can break down the normal protective mechanisms of the mouth, resulting in bad breath, bleeding gums, and loose teeth. Other signs may include changes in behavior, decreased appetite, or difficulty chewing. In severe cases, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect distant organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys, which is why untreated dental disease can quietly undermine a pet’s overall health.
If you suspect your pet is suffering from periodontal disease, please call our receptionist to schedule a complimentary exam of the mouth and teeth. If dental work is necessary, our staff can help you schedule the procedure and provide an estimate of costs. We can also help design an at-home oral care program tailored to your pet.
What Does Dentistry Include?
At Central Animal Hospital, a routine dental includes:
- Pre-anesthetic blood screening (recommended, optional to owner, not included in the price of the dental)
- General anesthesia
- Ultrasonic scaling to remove large deposits above the gum line
- Hand scaling to remove smaller deposits above and below the gum line
- Polishing to remove etching of the enamel that may occur during scaling
- Fluoride treatment to harden the enamel and delay accumulation of tartar
- Possible extractions when necessary, if a tooth is unable to be saved
- Pain medications administered on-site or sent home when needed
Because anesthesia is involved, we often pair dental procedures with a broader health check, and pets recovering from extractions or oral surgery may also benefit from our cold laser therapy or a pain management plan. Diet also plays a role in long-term oral health, so ask us about nutritional counseling options that support healthy teeth and gums.
Veterinary Dental Awareness Month
In honor of Veterinary Dental Awareness Month (February), Central Animal Hospital offers a discount, announced by email, on all dental procedures throughout the month. Keep an eye on your inbox for the dates, and ask about current veterinary specials when scheduling.
If you have any questions about our dental services, please contact us today at (561) 391-8787.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Dental Care
How often does my pet need a dental cleaning?
Most pets benefit from an annual dental exam and cleaning, though pets prone to periodontal disease may need more frequent care. Your veterinarian can recommend a schedule based on your pet’s oral health.
Does my pet need anesthesia for a dental cleaning?
Yes. General anesthesia allows for a thorough cleaning above and below the gum line and keeps your pet safe and comfortable during the procedure.
What are the signs of dental disease in pets?
Common signs include bad breath, bleeding or red gums, loose or missing teeth, decreased appetite, and difficulty chewing.
Is pre-anesthetic blood screening required?
Blood screening is recommended before anesthesia but is optional and not included in the price of the dental. It helps confirm your pet is a safe candidate for anesthesia.
What happens if my pet needs a tooth extraction?
If a tooth cannot be saved, our veterinarians will perform an extraction during the dental procedure and provide pain medication to keep your pet comfortable during recovery.
Can untreated dental disease affect my pet’s overall health?
Yes. In severe cases, bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and affect organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Do you offer any dental specials?
Yes. In honor of Veterinary Dental Awareness Month in February, we offer a discount on dental procedures, announced by email.
Protect Your Pet’s Smile
Schedule a dental exam at Central Animal Hospital in Boca Raton, FL.