Best Pet Dental Health Solutions at Amber Vet
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Endoscopy and Laparoscopy
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Orthopedic (Bone) Surgery
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Soft Tissue Surgery
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Sterilisation
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Dental Services
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Endodontics (Root Canal Treatment)
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Orthodontics (New)
Endoscopy involves using special flexible or rigid "tubes" with a camera and light source to non-invasively examine various parts of the body to diagnose growths and tumours, inflammatory disease, remove foreign bodies/stones and obtain biopsy samples.
Laparoscopy, also known as keyhole surgery, is another option for pet owners who want less pain and faster recovery for their beloved furkids. It is a minimally invasive surgical option with less pain, smaller wounds and faster recovery. The procedure uses tiny video cameras (endoscopes) and fine instruments via tiny incisions. This procedure is performed by our Principal Veterinarian, Dr Brian Loon, who has been performing endoscopy and laparoscopy since 2014.
For more information, please click here.
- Femoral head ostectomy (FHO) for severe hip dysplasia or hip dislocation/ luxation
- Toe or leg amputation
Post-operative care including initial activity restriction and subsequent physiotherapy is essential in ensuring a successful post-surgery recovery. Our veterinary team will work closely with pet owners through this process.
What surgeries are performed at Amber Vet?
Examples of surgeries we perform:
- Laparoscopic (keyhole) surgery and spay
- Lump/tumour removals
- General abdominal surgery
- Sterilisation (Neuter/castration, spay)
Please call us for more information on particular surgeries.
What can I expect during the admission process?
All pets undergoing surgery will receive a thorough pre-surgery check up to fully understand your pet's health and any pre-existing medical conditions. Owners will be guided through the surgical procedure, potential risks/complications as well as post-operative care to expect.
A pre-anaesthetic blood test is recommended for all pets prior to anaesthesia or surgery. This assesses liver and kidney function, red blood cell levels and blood clotting function. This allows us to thoroughly assess your pet and provide you the assurance that risks of anaesthesia and surgery are minimised.
Important notes:
- The admission process is expected to take about one hour.
- The owner registered in our accounts must be present to sign permission forms. Please call us to make prior arrangements if another representative will be present at admission instead.
- A deposit of 50% of the estimated cost of the procedure will be collected at admission.
What is done to ensure my pet’s safety and comfort during surgery?
When monitored intensively, the risk of general anaesthesia is generally very minimal in both young and old pets without severe organ dysfunction. All our patients under anaesthesia are closely monitored by a dedicated nursing staff as well as advanced equipment to monitor breathing rate, heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, ECG, body temperature and carbon dioxide levels in the breath. This ensures that your pet remains as safe as possible during the entire procedure.
We are equipped with the Covidien ForceTriad ™, a human-grade electrocautery/ blood vessel sealing machine that makes precise surgical incisions with less bleeding and seals blood vessels, thus minimising overall blood loss and surgical time, especially useful in surgeries such as large tumour removal, splenectomy and laparoscopic spay.
At Amber Vet, we provide sterilisation (also known as neuter for males or spay for females) for dogs, cats as well as small animals such as rabbits.
In addition to standard open abdominal surgery, we also provide minimally invasive keyhole surgery (laparoscopy) for spays, as well as neuters for testicles that are undescended in the abdomen. (Testicles that are not retained in the abdomen, i.e. retained in the groin or located normally in the scrotum, cannot be performed laparoscopically.)
Find out more about minimally invasive laparoscopy (keyhole) surgery.
Dental COHAT
Oral health is important for pets. At Amber Vet, we provide more than just routine dental scaling and polishing. We perform Dental COHAT (Complete Oral Health Assessment and Treatment) - which includes full mouth dental x-ray to detect any decaying abnormal teeth (including hidden teeth roots) which are not visible to the naked eye.
Root canal treatment (endodontics) is available at Amber Vet for pet owners who want to save their pet's chipped or fractured teeth that are functionally important such as canine (fang) teeth and chewing molars/premolars (carnassial teeth).
Read more about Root Canal Treatment here.
Orthodontic dental treatment involves the correction of misaligned (maloccluded) teeth. Unlike in humans, we do not perform orthodontic treatment for cosmetic reasons. Malocclusion in dogs and cats result in difficulty chewing well, and importantly pain due to inability to teeth causing ulcers on the gums/hard palate, which can result in nasal/sinus infections if severe. These issues are often under-diagnosed, with the canine teeth most commonly affected.
Dog breeds predisposed to malocclusion include long-nosed (dolichocephalic) breeds such as the dachshund, collie, greyhound, Italian greyhound, whippet and Afghan hound due to their narrow lower jaws resulting in linguoversion of canine teeth, where the lower canines are positioned too narrowly and rub on the hard palate (roof of the mouth). Short-nosed breeds also commonly have malocclusion issues due to their shortened lower jaw (overbite), including the shih tzu, boxer, bulldog, chow chow, lhasa apso, pekingese and pug.
There are a wide variety of procedures to correct malocclusion, such as temporary crown extension, power chain, inclined plane devices, expansion screws, or crown shortening with vital pulpotomy. The choice of technique will depend on a thorough assessment by our veterinarians, led by our principal veterinarian Dr Brian Loon.
Prosthodontics involves the fitting of artificial replacements for the crowns of teeth. This is commonly done on teeth that have compromised crown structure, making it prone to damage when chewing. Chipped/fractured teeth that have had root canal treatment performed are the most common cases to have a prosthetic crown considered.
The prosthetic crown is usually made of alloy metal, providing superior strength and resistance to biting forces compared to the original tooth structure. This involves a minimum of a 2-step process about 2-3 weeks apart. The first step involves preparing the tooth to receive the prosthetic crown by carefully shaping it with fine burs, followed by creating a detailed impression of the shaped tooth. This impression is then sent to a laboratory to custom manufacture the prosthetic crown. When the crown arrives a few weeks later, a second shorter anaesthetic procedure is then needed to fit the crown on the tooth and seal it in place. With good general dental care and avoidance of chewing on very hard objects, the prosthetic crown can be expected to last many years.
Dental Surgery at Amber Vet
At Amber Vet, we recognize the critical role that oral health plays in your pet’s overall well-being. Our specialized dental surgery services are designed to address a wide range of dental issues, ensuring that your pet maintains a healthy mouth and a happy life.
What is Dog Dental COHAT?
We remove plaque and tartar buildup from your pet’s teeth using specialized pet dental instruments.
This process helps prevent periodontal disease and other dental issues.
Full Mouth Dental X-Rays
We perform full mouth dental x-rays to detect any hidden dental problems that are not visible during a regular examination. This includes identifying decaying teeth, abnormal tooth structures, and hidden roots.
Comprehensive Oral Examination:
Our veterinarians conduct a detailed inspection of your pet’s oral cavity to check for signs of dental disease, such as gum inflammation, tooth decay, and oral masses.They also assess overall oral hygiene and provide best care
Professional Dog and Cat Dental Cleaning:
We remove plaque and tartar buildup from your pet’s teeth using specialized pet dental instruments. This process helps to prevent the periodontal disease and the other dental issues. Contact us today for more information.
Assessment and Treatment:
Based on the findings from the x-rays and examination, we develop a personalized treatment plan for your pet. This may include tooth extractions, treatment for periodontal disease, and other necessary dental procedures.
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Check-Up Today!
Benefits of Pet Dental COHAT
- Early Detection of Dental Issues : Our comprehensive full mouth dental x-rays enable us to identify dog dental problems early on, even those not visible during a regular examination. Early detection allows us to treat issues before they become severe, ensuring your pet maintains optimal oral health.
- Improved Oral Health : Regular professional dental cleaning helps prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, significantly reducing the risk of dog dental diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. This proactive approach ensures your pet's teeth and gums stay healthy and strong.
- Pain Relief : Dental problems can be a source of significant pain and discomfort for pets. By promptly addressing dental issues through COHAT, we can relieve pain and improve your pet’s quality of life, making everyday activities like eating and playing more enjoyable.
- Enhanced Overall Health: Maintaining good oral health is crucial for your pet’s overall well-being. Dental diseases can have far-reaching effects, potentially leading to other health complications. Regular pet dental care ensures your pet stays healthy and happy, contributing to their overall longevity.
- Call us immediately for prompt and compassionate care.
Common Signs of Pet Dental Problems
- Pawing at the Mouth: Pets may paw at their mouths or face if they have dental pain or irritation.
- Bleeding Gums: Gums that bleed easily, appear red, swollen, or inflamed can be indicative of periodontal disease.
- Reluctance to Eat: If your pet is hesitant to eat or shows a preference for soft food, it could be due to oral pain or difficulty chewing.
- Swelling Around the Mouth: Swelling of the face or jaw can be a sign of a dental abscess or infection.
- Changes in Behavior: Pets may become irritable, less active, or display other behavioral changes if they are experiencing dental pain.
Why Choose Amber Vet for Pet Dental COHAT?
- Experienced Veterinarians: Our team of highly skilled and experienced veterinarians specializes in comprehensive dental care for pets. With years of expertise, we are equipped to handle a wide range of dental issues, providing the best possible care for your pet.
- Advanced Technology : We utilize state-of-the-art dental equipment and the latest techniques to ensure precise diagnosis and effective treatment. Our advanced technology allows us to perform thorough assessments and deliver high-quality dental care.
- Compassionate Care We understand that dental visits can be stressful for pets, so we strive to create a calming and comfortable environment. Our team is dedicated to making your pet’s experience as positive and stress-free as possible.
- Have questions about our dental services? Our team is here to help. Contact us now!
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental x-rays are crucial for detecting hidden dental problems such as decaying teeth, abnormal tooth structures, and hidden roots. These issues are not visible during a regular examination and can lead to severe health problems if left untreated.
It is recommended to have your pet’s teeth checked at least once a year. However, pets with a history of dental problems or breeds prone to dental issues may require more frequent check-ups.
Yes, anesthesia is necessary to perform thorough dental procedures safely and effectively. It ensures your pet is comfortable and allows the veterinarian to conduct a detailed examination and cleaning without causing stress or discomfort.
After a dental procedure, your pet may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with pain relief prescribed by the veterinarian. It is important to follow post-procedure care instructions and monitor your pet for any signs of complications.
Many dental diseases in pets are preventable with regular dental care, including professional cleanings, at-home brushing, and a proper diet. Early detection and treatment of dental issues also play a significant role in prevention.
A cat dental cleaning at Amber Vet involves a thorough examination, full mouth dental x-rays, and professional cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup. The procedure is performed under anesthesia to ensure your cat’s comfort and safety.