Let’s talk teeth. They might not seem like the most glamorous part of pet care, but dental health is one of the biggest game-changers when it comes to your pet’s overall wellness. And yet, it’s often one of the most overlooked.
Did you know that by age three, most dogs and cats already have some form of dental disease? That’s early. And it doesn’t just stop at bad breath, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, infections, and even serious organ damage.
Why Dental Health Matters
Dental disease in pets doesn’t stay in the mouth. When plaque and tartar build up, bacteria can sneak into the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver. That’s why pets with untreated dental issues are at greater risk for systemic illness.
Signs of dental trouble include:
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Bad breath (we’re talking more than just dog breath)
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Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
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Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
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Difficulty eating or dropping food
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Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth
Unfortunately, pets are pros at hiding pain, so even if they’re eating or playing normally, dental disease could be brewing beneath the surface.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat It?
Left untreated, dental disease can escalate quickly. Infected gums can lead to abscesses, bone loss, and tooth decay. In advanced cases, bacteria can travel to vital organs, contributing to heart disease and kidney damage. And the cost to treat these complications? Let’s just say prevention is a lot cheaper—and safer.
Preventative Care That Works
The best dental care is a proactive one. Here’s how you can stay ahead of dental disease:
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Annual dental exams: These are part of your pet’s wellness check. At Pinnacle Veterinary Clinic, we inspect your pet’s teeth and gums for early signs of disease.
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Professional cleanings: Just like humans, pets need a deep clean now and then. We perform dental cleanings under anesthesia for a thorough, safe, and stress-free experience.
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At-home brushing: Yes, brushing your pet’s teeth is totally doable! Use a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste (never human toothpaste) and aim for a few times a week.
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Dental treats & chews: There are great vet-approved products that help reduce plaque while giving your pet a tasty treat.
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Water additives & oral gels: These are easy, low-effort additions to your pet’s daily routine that support dental hygiene.
The Truth About Anesthesia for Cleanings
We know some pet parents worry about anesthesia, but it’s the safest way to clean below the gumline where the real problems start. At Pinnacle, we use advanced monitoring and personalized protocols to ensure your pet’s safety every step of the way.
Skipping the anesthesia might seem easier, but those “awake” cleanings often miss the problem areas and can be more stressful for your pet.
What a Dental Cleaning Looks Like
Our professional dental cleanings include:
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Full oral exam
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Scaling to remove tartar
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Polishing to smooth the tooth surface
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Fluoride treatment
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Any necessary extractions or treatment of diseased teeth
Your pet goes home with fresher breath, healthier teeth, and a happier outlook.
February is the perfect time to focus on your pet’s dental health and set new habits in motion. It’s not just about better breath—routine dental care can help your pet live a longer, healthier life.
And don’t worry, if brushing isn’t happening at home, we won’t judge. We’re here to help you find a plan that fits your lifestyle and keeps your pet’s mouth healthy.
Give your pet a reason to smile!
Schedule a dental exam at Pinnacle Veterinary Clinic this month and take the first step toward a healthier future. Let’s catch issues early, clean those chompers, and keep your best friend feeling their best.