She held this seminar for veterinarians at the Pawleys Veterinary Hospital Tuesday, Oct. 25.  ”Doing the procedure with the animal under general anesthetic allows the gum line and inside the mouth to be cleaned and examined effectively,” she said.

She regularly speaks to veterinarians and animal affiliated groups in the Carolinas.  She also presents scientific papers, conducts teaching laboratories and provides this type of dental education for veterinary staff.  Hosting the seminar were Dr. Edward Verville DVM, Dr. Stacy Whetstone DVM and Dr. Stephanie Welch DVM, along with Hospital Manager Lisa Havel.

Dr. Verville said Dr. Queck demonstrated better techniques for routine dental treatment.  “She also educated our veterinarians on the latest effective procedures, including gingival flaps and advanced periodontal techniques to treat gum disease, ” Dr. Verville said. “In gingival flap surgery, gums are separated from the teeth and folded back temporarily to reach the root of the tooth and the bone.” Dr. Whetstone said preventive dentistry and oral care are just as important in our companion animals as in people. ”Most people see their dentist routinely and their pets should too,” Dr Whetstone said. “Dental disease can cause chronic pain and discomfort, lethargy and decreased appetite.” She said bad breath indicates the build up of harmful bacteria that can spread to other parts of the body and cause disease.  “Eighty-five per cent of pets over the age of three have some type of dental pathology,” she said.  “Detecting this pathology can be tricky and is best evaluated while under anesthesia for routine cleanings.” Dr. Whetstone said she believes oral care begins at home, followed by regular checkups and cleanings.  “Most dental disease can be prevented with good maintenance care,” she said.

“At Pawleys Veterinary Hospital, our technicians provide free dental exams and recommendations for home care.  Our veterinarians and technicians work together as a team to perform dental cleanings, treat damaged teeth, perform full oral exams, and advise on home care techniques.” “There are many options for home care including diets, chews, rinses, pastes, water additives, and daily teeth brushing.  Experience and advanced training, such as this seminar led by Dr. Queck, enables professionals to find the best option and evaluate each pet personally.”

Dr. Queck has operated the Carolinas Animal Hospital and Dental Clinic since 1993.  A graduate of Iowa State University, she has performed advanced dental procedures on pets since 1986. She became a Fellow of the Academy of Veterinary Dentistry in 1993.  There are less than 100 members of this academy worldwide.