RICHMOND, Texas, Jan. 17, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brazos Bend Animal Hospital acquires a state of the art dental x-ray machine to better serve its clients. The addition of the X-ray machine will complement their practice of thorough dental examinations at each wellness visit. The X-ray machine will allow the veterinarians to examine an animal's teeth, even deep below the gums, to detect problems that are not readily visible.
Dr. Karen Ross of Brazos Bend Animal Hospital believes that utilizing this machine in their Richmond practice will greatly improve the quality of care available to their pet patients. "As with human teeth, animal teeth extend far below the gum line. There can be problems there that are not visible to us on the surface. This new X-ray machine will allow us to detect and address those problems in their earliest stages," stated Dr. Ross. "I simply cannot over stress the importance of regular dental care for pets. Sometimes we think that because they chew on a rawhide bone or eat crunchy food that it is sufficient to keep their teeth clean and healthy. In reality, a home health care regimen of regular brushing supplemented with yearly cleanings will help keep your pet healthy and happy, even into old age."
As with humans, bacteria from an animal's mouth can affect the vital organs of the body adversely. Pets with periodontal disease typically have poorer overall health and are at risk for problems with their heart, liver, and kidneys as well. To combat periodontal disease, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), recommends regular dental checkups and cleanings for small pets such as cats and dogs. A dental cleaning will involve scaling the teeth to remove plaque and polishing of the teeth in addition to a comprehensive oral examination to detect any problems with the teeth or gums. The AVMA recommends yearly checkups but an animal should be sooner if they exhibit signs of dental problems such as bad breath, loose or broken teeth, an abrupt change in eating habits or refusing to eat entirely, or signs of bleeding or swelling around the mouth. These problems may be caused by periodontal disease, broken teeth, or abscesses or cysts. These issues require immediate veterinary care. The AVMA also advises that pet dental cleanings should occur under anesthesia to reduce stress on the pet, make X-rays possible and prevents injury from dental equipment.
To inquire about dental health services or to make an appointment, contact the office at 281-342-1117. Brazos Bend Animal Hospital is located at 721 FM 359, Richmond, TX 77406. Their regular office hours are from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday, and from 8:00 AM to 12:00 Noon on Saturday. Visit them online at www.brazosbendvet.com for more information.