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Dentistry

Annual dental exams and cleanings are recommended to protect your pet from many health problems and help them maintain a healthy and clean mouth.

Overview

Studies show that 50% of all dogs and cats have some form of periodontal disease. That number jumps to 80% in pets that are 3 years of age or older. If left untreated, periodontal disease can cause infection, pain, and tooth loss over time. It can also lead to serious health problems like microscopic changes in the heart, liver, and kidneys. Because of this, we recommend an annual veterinary dental healthcare examination for all pets.

Why do pets need dental care?

Many health problems start in the mouth. Plaque, tartar, periodontal disease, and infected teeth serve as a source of inflammation and infection for the rest of the body.

Dental disease is one of the most common problems that we see in dogs and cats. It can cause drooling, reluctance to eat, swelling, bad breath, redness of the gums, loose teeth and tooth discoloration.

When should I seek dental care for my pet?

Dental issues and dental related diseases can easily be prevented by visiting our veterinarians regularly for dental examinations and cleanings. We take a comprehensive approach to dental care including dental health assessment, treatment, and prevention.

Dental Services

  • Minor Extractions

  • Complex Extractions

  • Pulpotomies

  • Root Canals

  • Interceptive Dentistry

  • Oral Surgery

  • Dental Caries

Advanced Dentistry

Dr. Dening has extensive experience and training in advanced dental procedures. He regularly attends the Veterinary Dental Forum, a national conference dedicated to advancing education in veterinary dentistry. He was a one of only a few veterinarians from New Hampshire who was a member of the American Veterinary Dental Society and is a current contributor to the Foundation for Veterinary Dentistry. Dr. Dening is a strong advocate for good oral health in our dogs and cats as they do not vocalize that their mouths hurt and recognizes that eliminating oral pain and dental disease improves their overall health and quality of life.

Although sometimes extractions are necessary due to the severity of periodontal disease, Dr. Dening strives to prevent oral disease and preserve teeth and their function. He is experienced in periodontal surgery, endodontic therapy such as root canal therapy and vital pulpotomies, complicated tooth extractions and removing retained root tip, and other oral surgery. Dr. Dening can also provide therapy for broken teeth and malocclusions.

Dr. Dening is welcoming referrals from our community for these procedures and will work with your veterinarian to make sure your dog or cat gets the best oral care. Please call today to schedule and consultation.