Our pets need routine dental care just like we do. Most dogs and cats benefit from professional dental cleanings every 6 to 12 months. And depending on breed, your pet may need to start dental care surprisingly early — small breed dogs and dogs with short muzzles often need their first cleaning between 12 and 15 months of age.
Why Pet Dental Health Matters
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues we see in dogs and cats — and one of the most undertreated. Pets are remarkably stoic about mouth pain, which means problems often progress for years before owners notice anything is wrong.
Symptoms of dental disease in pets: bad breath that’s noticeably worse than normal, loose or discolored teeth, dropping food or chewing on one side, reluctance to eat hard food, drooling (sometimes with blood), and pawing at the face.
Untreated dental disease isn’t just a mouth problem. The bacteria that build up around inflamed gums can travel through the bloodstream and contribute to disease in the heart, kidneys, and liver.
At-Home Dental Care
Daily brushing is the gold standard, but even a few times a week makes a real difference. Use pet-specific toothpaste only — human toothpaste contains fluoride, which is toxic to pets. Dental treats, water additives, and dental diets approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council can also help slow plaque buildup.
What to Expect at a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning
- Fasting before the procedure (6–12 hours)
- General anesthesia and intubation
- Full oral exam and dental charting
- Dental x-rays (most dental disease is below the gumline)
- Scaling and polishing
- Extractions if needed
To schedule a dental exam or cleaning for your pet, call us at (828) 256-2151. And ask about our specials during February — Pet Dental Health Month!