ABSTRACT
Veterinary dentistry is constantly progressing. The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines for the practice of companion animal dentistry for the veterinary profession. Dental care is necessary to provide optimum health and optimize quality of life. Untreated diseases of the oral cavity are painful and can contribute to local and systemic diseases. This article includes guidelines for preventive oral health care, client communication, evaluation, dental cleaning, and treatment. In addition, materials and equipment necessary to perform a medically appropriate procedure are described.
Subject(s)
Cat Diseases/prevention & control , Dentistry/veterinary , Dog Diseases/prevention & control , Oral Hygiene , Preventive Dentistry , Animals , Cats , Dentistry/standards , Dogs , Mouth Diseases/prevention & control , Mouth Diseases/veterinary , United StatesABSTRACT
The purpose of this document is to provide guidelines for the practice of companion animal dentistry for the veterinary profession. Dental care is necessary to provide optimum health and quality of life. Diseases of the oral cavity, if left untreated, are often painful and can contribute to other local or systemic diseases. This paper includes guidelines for materials and equipment, dental cleaning and evaluation, client communication, and pet home care.
