It is estimated that 1 in 10 pets are in need of serious dental surgery, however this can often be prevented by having regular checks, professional cleaning and homecare prevention, provided we start early.  If detected early, dental disease can be reversible.  Once dental disease does exist, management of progression is still possible.

Disease of the gums, known as periodontal disease, is the most common cause of tooth loss in dogs.  Feline tooth resorption is the most common cause of tooth loss in cats.  Teeth that are fractured in pets can even sometimes be saved with root canal therapy!

The key to good dental care is awareness of dental disease, regular checks, dental homecare prevention (which we design individually) and accurate treatment.  Dental radiographs help us to detect early problems in teeth below the surface and assess tooth roots.  At Bellarine Veterinary Practice we are dedicated to preserving as many teeth as possible, but ensuring that complete dental treatment is performed.  When extractions are required, we ensure that this is performed in a pain-free way.

Dental hygiene should have a lifetime focus, so twice a year BVP offers free nurse dental checks in May and August. For more information, please visit our Dental Month page.