Hablamos Español
Keeping Your Cat’s Smile Healthy & Bright
At Lakewood Animal Hospital, we understand the crucial role that dental health plays in your cat's overall well-being. Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in cats, and it can lead to pain, difficulty eating, and more severe health issues if left untreated. Our Cat Dental Services are designed to help prevent, diagnose, and treat dental problems, ensuring your feline companion maintains a healthy mouth and a happy life.
Why Cat Dental Health Matters
Cats are great at hiding discomfort, and dental disease often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Poor oral hygiene can lead to periodontal disease, which can cause gum inflammation, tooth loss, and even affect internal organs like the heart and kidneys. Regular dental care is essential to maintaining your cat’s overall health and comfort.
Comprehensive Dental Examinations
Regular dental exams are the first step in preventing dental issues. Our team will thoroughly examine your cat’s mouth to check for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental concerns. A comprehensive dental exam includes:
- Checking for tartar and plaque buildup
- Assessing gum health (looking for signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease)
- Examining teeth for fractures, cracks, or signs of infection
Early detection helps us prevent serious issues before they develop.
Professional Cat Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining your cat’s oral health. Over time, plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, leading to gum disease and infection. Professional cleanings help remove this buildup and keep your cat's teeth and gums healthy.
- Scaling and polishing to remove tartar and plaque
- Fluoride treatments to help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity
- Oral exams during the cleaning to detect any signs of disease
Dental cleanings should regularly be performed, depending on your cat’s age and oral health.
Dental X-Rays
While a visual exam is an important first step, some dental problems can’t be seen without dental X-rays. X-rays allow us to evaluate the tooth roots, jawbone, and areas below the gumline, where issues like abscesses or fractures may be hiding. X-rays are an essential tool for detecting:
- Root infections
- Abscesses
- Tooth fractures
- Bone loss or changes in the jaw
This advanced imaging allows us to provide a more accurate diagnosis and recommend the best treatment options.
Tooth Extractions
In cases of severe dental disease, a tooth extraction may be necessary to relieve your cat’s pain and prevent further complications. If a tooth is too damaged by decay or infection, it may need to be removed. We ensure that tooth extractions are performed safely and with minimal discomfort to your cat, using local anesthesia and sedation as needed. Post-operative care is also provided to ensure proper healing.