Pet Dental Care in Hickory
Comprehensive dental care for the dogs and cats of Hickory. Dental health is whole-body health: from routine cleanings to extractions and dental x-rays, we keep your pet’s mouth healthy and pain-free.
Why Pet Dental Care Matters More Than You Think
By the time your dog or cat is three years old, there’s a good chance they’re already showing early signs of periodontal disease. It’s the most common health issue we see in adult pets — and one of the most undertreated, because pets are remarkably good at hiding the discomfort it causes.
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 issues with the heart, kidneys, and liver. So when we recommend a dental cleaning, we’re not being picky about your pet’s smile; we’re protecting their whole body.
What’s Included in a Pet Dental Cleaning
Professional dental cleanings at Springs Road Animal Hospital are performed under general anesthesia, which is the only way to do the job thoroughly and safely. A typical dental visit includes:
- A full oral exam to assess the teeth, gums, and soft tissues
- Pre-anesthetic bloodwork to make sure your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia
- Scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Polishing to smooth the tooth surface and slow future buildup
- Dental x-rays, since the majority of dental disease in pets happens below the gumline, where it can’t be seen with the naked eye
- Extractions, if needed, with appropriate pain management
We’ll call you during the procedure if we find something on the X-rays that warrants additional treatment, so you’re always part of the decision.
Signs Your Dog or Cat May Have a Dental Issue
Pets are stoic about mouth pain, but there are usually clues if you know what to look for. Watch for:
- Bad breath that’s noticeably worse than usual
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Drooling, sometimes with a tinge of blood
- Dropping food or chewing on one side of the mouth
- Pawing at the face or rubbing the muzzle on furniture
- Decreased appetite or reluctance to eat hard food
- Loose, broken, or discolored teeth
If you’re noticing any of these signs, schedule an exam — the sooner we identify a problem, the more options we have for addressing it.
Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy at Home
Professional cleanings do the heavy lifting, but home care between visits goes a long way. Daily brushing with pet-safe toothpaste is the gold standard, but even a few times a week makes a real difference. Dental treats, water additives, and dental diets can also help slow plaque buildup. We’re happy to walk you through what’s worth doing and what’s just marketing — ask us at your next visit.
To schedule your pet’s dental exam or cleaning, request an appointment online or call us at (828) 256-2151.
Book Now