Cherokee Animal Hospital, a veterinary practice serving Canton, Georgia, is highlighting the importance of professional dental care in maintaining pet health and preventing often-overlooked suffering in dogs and cats. The hospital reports that dental disease affects the majority of pets over age three, yet many pet owners remain unaware their animals may be experiencing chronic pain.
Dental disease in pets progresses silently, with animals continuing to eat despite experiencing significant discomfort. Unlike humans who readily communicate dental pain, pets instinctively mask their suffering, making professional veterinary assessment essential for early detection and treatment. The condition can lead to serious complications beyond the mouth, including heart, liver, and kidney problems when bacteria from infected teeth enter the bloodstream.
"Many pet owners are shocked when we show them dental radiographs revealing extensive disease beneath healthy-looking gums," said Chris Bryant, veterinarian at Cherokee Animal Hospital. "Pets are remarkably good at hiding pain, which means dental disease often progresses to advanced stages before owners notice any signs. Professional dental care can literally add years to a pet's life by eliminating chronic infection and pain."
Pet dentistry by veterinarians involves comprehensive examination, digital radiography, and treatment under anesthesia to ensure thorough cleaning both above and below the gum line. This professional approach differs significantly from cosmetic cleaning, which only addresses visible tartar without treating underlying disease or alleviating pain.
The hospital utilizes advanced dental equipment including digital dental radiography, which reveals problems not visible during standard examination. Studies indicate that up to 60 percent of dental disease exists below the gum line, making radiographs essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Professional scaling removes bacterial biofilm and tartar from all tooth surfaces, including areas impossible to reach without anesthesia.
Warning signs of dental disease include bad breath, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, facial swelling, and bleeding gums. However, many pets display no obvious symptoms despite experiencing significant discomfort. Regular professional dental examinations allow veterinarians to identify and address problems before they become severe.
The hospital emphasizes that anesthesia-free dental procedures, while appealing to some pet owners, fail to address disease below the gum line and can actually mask serious problems by improving cosmetic appearance while leaving painful conditions untreated. Professional dental care under anesthesia remains the gold standard for maintaining pet oral health.
Cherokee Animal Hospital is an independent veterinary practice providing comprehensive medical services including wellness examinations, vaccinations, surgery, diagnostics, boarding, and specialized therapies such as acupuncture and laser treatment. The hospital serves Canton and surrounding communities with a focus on preventive care and client education to improve pet health outcomes.
###
For more information about Cherokee Animal Hospital, contact the company here:
Cherokee Animal Hospital
Chris Bryant
770-479-6505
info@cherokeeanimalhospital.com
2424 Marietta Hwy, Canton, GA 30114
