North Paws Pet Dental Care

Maple Grove, MN Pet Dental Care  •  Protecting Your Pet's Dental Health at North Paws Veterinary Clinic
In Between Cleanings: Dental Care at Home  •  Signs of Pet Dental Problems

maple grove pet dentistsMaple Grove, MN Pet Dental Care

You are a responsible pet owner and you take good care of your pet - but do you always remember to take care of your pet's teeth?

Pets have dental diseases and problems just like people do. The combination of regular dental check-ups at North Paws Veterinary Clinic and good dental hygiene at home can increase your pet's health, vitality and well-being, and help ensure he or she leads the best life possible.

If left untreated, dental disease can not only be painful and inhibit proper nutrition, but it can also lead to serious systemic issues that may threaten your pet's overall health before symptoms are noticeable. For those reasons, Dr. Riggs considers dental care an important piece of your dog's or cat's preventive health care program.

Protecting Your Pet's Dental Health at North Paws Veterinary Clinic

Maple Grove veterinarian Dr. Riggs believes the centerpiece of good dental care is a complete oral exam followed by a thorough cleaning designed to remove plaque and slow its buildup.

At our veterinary hospital in Maple Grove, MN your pet's dental appointment includes:

  • Oral examinations under anesthesia
  • Diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease
  • Digital Dental X-rays
  • Supra and subgingival scaling
  • Tooth extractions
  • Polishing
  • Irrigation
  • Fluoride application

Should we find any issues, such as evidence of gum or tooth erosion, gingivitis, or excessive plaque buildup, we will discuss this with you and offer treatment options. We are experienced dental practitioners and can offer a number of dental procedures and oral surgeries.



Pet Dental Care at North Paws Veterinary ClinicPet Dental Care at North Paws Veterinary Clinic

In Between Cleanings: Dental Care at Home

You can prevent serious dental problems by making sure your pet receives dental exams at the time of each vaccination, again at 6 months of age, and then annually. In between visits to your Maple Grove veterinarian at North Paws Veterinary Clinic, check your pet's teeth regularly for signs of problems. Brushing your pet's teeth is the single most important procedure you can do to maintain good oral health. If performed regularly, brushing dramatically decreases the incidence of gingivitis and can increase the interval between teeth cleaning appointments.

If you are unsure of how to brush your pet's teeth, please ask Dr. Riggs for instructions.

Signs of Pet Dental Problems

Symptoms of dental disease include:

  • Bad breath - one of the first signs of dental disease
  • A yellowish-brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gum line
  • Red and swollen gums
  • Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth or gums are touched
  • Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
  • Loose or missing teeth

If your pet is experiencing any of the above symptoms, please contact North Paws Veterinary Clinic for an appointment so your pet does not spend any more time needlessly suffering with oral discomfort.

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