Most dogs and cats eventually need a professional dental cleaning using an ultrasonic scaler such as your dentist might use.  We also hand scale the teeth under the gum line where tartar often accumulates, then polish the teeth to reduce the recurrence of tartar buildup.  We also perform dental extractions when necessary. Dental procedures are preformed using the same inhalation anesthetic and careful monitoring techniques that we use for our surgical patients. Many pets have their teeth cleaned on an annual basis to help ensure optimal oral health.

Dental Radiography

Taking care of your pet’s oral health is an important part of their overall health care. Sometimes, more than the basic care is needed to properly diagnose or treat a dental problem, and dental radiography is a tool we use.

Understanding Dental Radiography for Pets

Dental radiographs are essentially dental x-rays. These photographic images give the veterinarian a look at the internal or underlying structures that are not visible through a physical exam. Radiographs are a painless way to get an in-depth look at your pet’s teeth, jaws, and mouth, but sedation may be required to obtain the radiograph because pets most usually will not sit still during the exam.

When Dental Radiography May Be Necessary for Pets

Dental radiographs may be necessary during a dental checkup, but they are most often performed when there is some form of trauma to the jaws or teeth. Some problems that can be diagnosed using radiography include:

• Abscesses on the root of a tooth
• Dental or jaw fractures
• Tumors on jawbones
• Unerupted teeth that are not growing correctly

Contact Plateau Animal Hospital for Pet Dental Care Needs in Crossville, TN

Overall, dental radiography for pets is a valuable component of their care plan. At Plateau Animal Hospital, we have an on-site radiology team to perform these in-depth exams as needed. Reach out to us to schedule an appointment at our Crossville, TN office.