DACULA, Ga., July 8, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Apalachee Ridge Animal Hospital in Dacula, GA is reminding pet owners that pet dental care is an important part of overall pet wellness. According to veterinarian Dr. Mike Wanchick, pets can suffer from oral health problems such as tooth decay and gingivitis as early as three years of age. Dr. Wanchick recommends an annual dental cleaning to protect a pet's oral health.
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats aged three years or older suffer from periodontal disease. Dacula veterinarian Dr. Mike Wanchick is working to change these statistics. The veterinarian is raising awareness about oral health problems in pets and encouraging pet owners to proactively protect their pets' health with dental care.
"Many pet owners dismiss dog breath as a common annoyance," said Dr. Wanchick. "In reality, a pet's bad breath is actually a sign of oral health problems. As a veterinarian, my job is to help pet owners provide the best care for their pets. That starts with proper pet dental care."
Since animals are unable to brush their own teeth, bacteria collects along the gum line after every meal. Over time, bacteria can harden into plaque. Plaque buildup can push away the gum line, creating pockets that are susceptible to bacterial infections. Damage can occur to the surrounding gum and bone, ultimately leading to the loss of teeth.
Dr. Wanchick cautioned that periodontal problems do not stop with tooth loss. In some cases, a bacterial infection may enter a pet's bloodstream, affecting vital organs such as the heart. Toxins excreted from bacteria can cause seizures, which may be fatal.
"Regular brushing and annual dental care can truly save a pet's life," said Dr. Wanchick. "Once plaque begins to harden along the gum line, it becomes increasingly difficult to clean and remove. The absolute worst case scenario, a bacterial blood infection, is sadly quite common. Pet owners always think that such an infection won't happen to their pet, but when it does, treatment can be expensive and the infection may even have fatal consequences."
The Dacula vet stressed that prevention is key for cats and dogs. During an annual dental cleaning, Dr. Wanchick will sedate the pet and then scrape away any plaque buildup using an ultrasonic scaler. He finishes by polishing the teeth to help prevent tartar adhesion.
The veterinary hospital also provides comprehensive pain management for teeth extraction, as well as digital radiographs for enhanced diagnosis of potential oral health problems. "Regular brushing also makes a huge difference," said Dr. Wanchick. "Aim to brush your pet's teeth at least once every week."
Apalachee Ridge Animal Hospital is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). The veterinary hospital is part of the Georgia Veterinary Associates, Inc. family of veterinary hospitals serving the Auburn, Winder, and Grayson communities.