Dentistry

Veterinary Dentists manage all manners of oral disease in animals, with the primary goal being to restore and maintain proper mouth function, as well as to relieve any pain caused by the associated maladies. In addition, establishing oral health reduces secondary effects on organ function (e.g. liver) from the spread of infection from the mouth via the blood.

Dr. Sharon French  runs the Dentistry service at the VEC. A Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry, Dr. French is also the veterinary dental consultant for the Metro Toronto Zoo. She is supported by a team of registered veterinary technicians, as well she consults with the various other experts available at the VEC, including board certified internists, surgeons, neurologist and anesthesiologist.

The advanced dentistry suite at the VEC contains of the necessary supplies and equipment for the dentist to perform any necessary oral procedure including:

Oral Surgery to  treat:

• Fractures of the jaw, teeth or
• Other facial trauma
• Oral tumors
• Complex extractions
• Palatal defects

Endodontics:

• Root canal therapy
• Repair/treatment of broken teeth with pulp exposure

Orthodontics:

• Bite correction

Dental Radiography:

• Evaluation of dental disease
• Diagnosis and treatment planning
• TMJ (temporomandibular joints)

Restoration:

• Bonding 
• Crowns 
• Fillings

Periodontics, treatment of:

• Gingivitis - bleeding gums
• Gingival (gun) and bone recession
• Loose teeth
• Periodontal pockets

Oral Medicine, diagnosis and treatment of:

• Severe inflammatory conditions of the mouth in dogs and cats
• Oral pain: Inability to open/close mouth – musculoskeletal conditions of the head
• Facial swelling or discharge

Consultations with  Dr. French  are available as a referral from a primary care veterinarian.