Dental Care
Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment, also known as COHAT, is an assessment of the whole mouth with an oral exam and dental x-rays. A personalized treatment plan is created based on what we see in your pet’s mouth. Once your pet is anesthetized and x-rays are taken, we will have a complete picture of what’s going on in your pet’s mouth and can update you with any new findings.
If you’re wondering if your pet still needs COHAT if they receive regular non-anesthetic dental cleanings, the answer is yes. Although regular dental cleanings are great, they make the teeth look cleaner and help the pet’s breath smell better temporarily. The COHAT is more of a deep dive to fully evaluate all tooth surfaces, and below the gum line. During this procedure our patients need to be anesthetized so a full assessment can be performed.
Symptoms of Poor Oral Health:
If your pet has any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian to schedule a dental checkup.
- Persistently bad breath
- Bleeding, inflamed, or receded gums
- Loss of appetite or change in eating habits
- Pawing and sensitivity of the mouth
- Depression
- Salivation
Periodontal Disease in Pets
Periodontal disease can affect more than just your pet’s teeth and gums. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream through inflamed, bleeding gums and attack your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys, potentially causing serious health problems. It’s simple to avoid the dangers of poor oral health, you just need to take the proper steps.
- Ask your veterinarian for an oral exam for your pet.
- Schedule a professional dental cleaning. A professional cleaning will remove plaque and tartar encrusted around the gum line. This cleaning will require your pet to be put under anesthesia.
- Home care and proper diet.
- Brush your pet’s teeth at home using toothbrushes and toothpaste designed for animals.
- Dry food, dental treats, and dental bones can be helpful in removing plaque above the gum line.
- Your veterinarian may recommend an antibacterial rinse or gel when brushing is not practical. If you would like to try a water additive, look at “healthymouth.com”.