Orthodontics For Animals

By now, we have all heard our Veterinarians take a peak in our pets mouth, and recommend a dental cleaning. It is common practice, and great medicine. The truth is, pets need a sparkling smile, too! Unlike us humans, our four legged critterz depend us to maintain their overall hygiene, and that includes their teeth. Plaque and tartar build up fast, and can lead to other health problems if not properly cared for. Routine brushing is useful, and a great way to keep ahead of further problems.

When a dental takes place, it is generally a full anesthetic prodedure. Meaning your pet will be under full anesthetics. Of course, most animals prefer us not to be playing around too much in their mouths, even if sedated. So, for our safety and theirs, we make sure to use anesthesia. Typical instruments  used are the same as the ones human dentists use. Full mouth xrays are taken, looking for any bad teeth, or infections in the gum, otherwise not seen.  Most dentists clean all of the teeth, removing any plaque or tartar. Followed by a good polish, our patients' favorite flavors are cherry and mint! Yes, just like humans, our pets get the tasty stuff! Once completed, a sealant is used to help prevent future build up on the teeth.

In the rare circumstance that an animal endures a dental emergency, perhaps a broken tooth, some Veterinarians are equipped to remedy the issue. Root canals are a common procedure, as are caps, extractions (sometimes full mouth) and even Orthodontics. As standard practice, the Doctor will work with you, on what method you prefer, in your pets own circumstance.

When it comes to Orthodontics, most Veterinarians will refer you to a specialist, as this is not a common procedure. Can you imagine, your dog with braces?! Yes, It occurs frequently. Orthodontics have been used in everything from highly traumatic cases to just plain crooked teeth. My first experience ever encountering such a thing, was a bull dog that suffered a broken jaw after being hit by a truck. With no way to successfully affix the lower jaw into the correct position to properly heal, the surgeon placed brackets on teeth, thus supporting a wire that could be used to lock the jaw in place. Crazy?! Not entirely. That same method is used in human medicine, for the same purpose. I admit, I did laugh at first, the simple thought of the idea was outrageous to me. However, it has been 6 years since that bulldog was admitted on an emergency basis. Without ever knowing his history, you would never know his jaw was once shattered.

During another procedure, a larger dog had presented with the most twisted smile. He was 2 years old, and still had retained puppy teeth, as well as his adult teeth. Two complete rows of teeth growing in every direction imaginable. During his special treatment, the Doctor pulled multiple teeth and placed Orthodontic brackets on the remaining pearly whites. We continued to see that dog for just over a year. Every 2 weeks he would happily drag his owner through the doors, just to get his wires tightened. Amazingly enough, his smile is practically normal, a huge difference from his first appearance. Though, you can not make a dog where a retainer, the teeth hardly seemed to move. Yet another successful case! As of recently, there is a product now used in Veterinary medicine, that is similar to Invisalign, the bracket free, clear braces!

It is amazing what Veterinary Medicine is capable of. I love, love, love my career!