Choosing the Right Boarded Veterinary Dentist in Chicago for Your Pet's Oral Health

Introduction

Your pet's oral health is just as important as your own. Dental disease can lead to pain, discomfort, and even life-threatening infections. That's why it's important to find a qualified veterinary dentist who can provide your pet with the best possible care.

In Chicago, there are a number of boarded veterinary dentists who are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of pet dentistry. These dentists have completed additional training beyond veterinary school and have passed a rigorous examination to earn their board certification.

What is a Boarded Veterinary Dentist?

A boarded veterinary dentist is a veterinarian who has completed additional training in the field of dentistry. This training includes:

• Advanced coursework in oral surgery, periodontics, and endodontics
• Clinical experience in treating a wide variety of dental problems
• Passing a rigorous examination

Board certification is the highest level of credentialing available for veterinary dentists. It ensures that the dentist has the knowledge and skills to provide your pet with the best possible care.

Why Choose a Boarded Veterinary Dentist?

There are many reasons to choose a boarded veterinary dentist for your pet's oral health care. These dentists have:

• More experience and training in dentistry than general veterinarians.
• Access to the latest dental techniques and equipment.
• A commitment to providing the highest quality of care.

How to Find a Boarded Veterinary Dentist in Chicago

There are a number of ways to find a boarded veterinary dentist in Chicago. You can:

• Ask your veterinarian for a referral.
• Search online for "boarded veterinary dentist Chicago."
• Contact the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC) for a list of certified dentists.

What to Look for in a Boarded Veterinary Dentist

When choosing a boarded veterinary dentist, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Experience: The dentist should have several years of experience in treating dental problems in pets.
• Credentials: The dentist should be certified by the AVDC.
• Location: The dentist's office should be conveniently located for you.
• Cost: The cost of dental care can vary depending on the type of procedure required.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When looking for a veterinary dentist, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:

• Choosing a dentist based on price alone. The cheapest dentist may not be the best dentist for your pet.
• Choosing a dentist who is not certified by the AVDC. Board certification is the highest level of credentialing available for veterinary dentists.
• Ignoring your pet's dental health. Dental disease can be a serious problem for pets. If your pet is showing signs of dental problems, such as bad breath, bleeding gums, or difficulty eating, it's important to see a veterinarian right away.

Why Pet Dental Health Matters

Your pet's oral health is important for a number of reasons. Dental disease can:

• Cause pain and discomfort.
• Lead to infections.
• Damage your pet's teeth and gums.
• Shorten your pet's life.

By taking care of your pet's teeth and gums, you can help your pet live a longer, healthier life.

Benefits of Choosing a Boarded Veterinary Dentist

There are many benefits to choosing a boarded veterinary dentist for your pet's oral health care. These dentists:

• Are highly trained and experienced in all aspects of pet dentistry.
• Have access to the latest dental techniques and equipment.
• Are committed to providing the highest quality of care.

FAQs

• How often should my pet see a veterinary dentist?
  Your pet should see a veterinary dentist at least once a year for a checkup. More frequent visits may be necessary if your pet has a history of dental problems.

• What are the signs of dental disease in pets?
  The signs of dental disease in pets include:

• Bad breath

• Bleeding gums
• Difficulty eating
• Loose or broken teeth
• Swollen or painful gums

• What are the different types of dental procedures that a veterinary dentist can perform?
  Veterinary dentists can perform a variety of dental procedures, including:

• Cleanings

• Fillings
• Extractions
• Root canals
• Gum surgery
• How much does dental care for pets cost?
  The cost of dental care for pets can vary depending on the type of procedure required. However, you can expect to pay between $200 and $1,000 for a routine dental checkup and cleaning. More complex procedures, such as extractions or root canals, can cost more.

• What are the risks of anesthesia for pets?
  Anesthesia is a necessary part of many dental procedures. However, there are some risks associated with anesthesia, including:

• Respiratory depression

• Cardiac arrest
• Allergic reactions

• How can I prevent dental disease in my pet?
  You can help prevent dental disease in your pet by:

• Brushing your pet's teeth regularly

• Feeding your pet a diet that is low in sugar and carbohydrates
• Providing your pet with dental treats and toys
• Taking your pet to the veterinary dentist for regular checkups

Call to Action

If your pet is showing signs of dental disease, it's important to see a veterinary dentist right away. By choosing a boarded veterinary dentist, you can ensure that your pet receives the best possible care.

Appendix

Table 1: Signs of Dental Disease in Pets

Table 2: Types of Dental Procedures that a Veterinary Dentist Can Perform

Table 3: Risks of Anesthesia for Pets