Comprehensive Pet Dental Exams for Cats & Dogs
Routine dental care is one of the most effective ways to help prevent discomfort and health issues in pets, but many dental problems often go unnoticed until they become advanced.
At our Westfield veterinary hospital, our dental exams focus on identifying early signs of disease, such as tartar buildup, gum inflammation, or tooth damage, before they begin to impact your pet’s quality of life. During your visit, we’ll also walk you through practical steps you can take at home to support your pet’s oral hygiene between appointments.
Our team is here to help you understand your pet’s oral health and guide you toward the appropriate next steps when care is needed. Healthy teeth and gums support a happier, more comfortable life for your companion, and it all begins with regular dental examinations.
The Importance of Dental Care for Pets
Your pet’s oral health is an important part of their overall well-being. Without routine care, plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth loss, difficulty eating, and, in more advanced cases, issues that may affect the heart, liver, or kidneys.
At home, consistent dental care can further support your pet’s oral health. During your visit, we’ll provide guidance on effective at-home practices to help keep their mouth healthy between checkups.
Should your pet require a professional cleaning or more extensive dental treatments, we will work closely with our partners at Plainfield Animal Hospital to ensure your dog or cat receives the specialized care they need.
FAQs About Pet Dental Care
You can find answers to the most frequently asked questions about pet dental care below.
- Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?
As a result of poor oral health, our pets may develop periodontal disease or tooth decay.
As with humans, when animals eat, plaque adheres to their teeth and can harden into tartar if not brushed away on a regular basis.
This can result in oral infections, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even missing or loose teeth. That's why regular dental care is essential to preventing pain or disease in the gums.
- How can I tell if my pet has oral hygiene issues?
Did you know that oral health issues can affect behavior? Dental issues cause excessive drooling (which may contain pus or blood) or pawing at the mouth or teeth. They might yawn too much, grind their teeth, or stop grooming.
Oral health issues include bad breath, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration.
Some pets may be in pain and unable to eat.
- What long-term problems can poor oral health potentially cause in my pet?
Oral health issues and conditions can cause disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other organs throughout your pet's body, in addition to cavities and bad breath.
Cysts or tumors can form. Your pet may also be in a bad mood (if you've ever had a toothache, you know how bad it can make you feel!). Furthermore, diseases associated with oral health issues can shorten your pet's lifespan and cause significant pain.
This is why dental care is so important for the physical health and well-being of animals.
- What happens during a pet tooth cleaning appointment?
During your pet's routine oral exam, the veterinarian will examine his or her mouth for oral health conditions or any symptoms that require treatment.
If your pet is going for a cleaning, tartar and other debris will be removed from your cat's or dog's teeth by the veterinarian. If cavities, gingivitis, or other conditions need to be addressed, the veterinarian will explain them to you and advise you on what steps to take.
Surgery may be required in some cases to treat serious conditions. Anesthesia will be administered to your pet prior to the dental procedure to ensure that they are comfortable and pain-free. However, special care will be required following surgery.
If you notice any of these symptoms or feel your pet is due for a dental cleaning, please contact us right away. We will refer you to our partners at Plainfield Animal Hospital to ensure your dog or cat receives the specialized care they need.
- What should I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth clean between dental appointments?
Brushing your pet's teeth and providing dental chew toys are important at home. Plaque can be removed by using these.
Make sure they can't get their teeth damaged by chewing on things like bones, toys, or anything too hard. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's oral health, you should always contact your veterinarian.
