DENTAL CARE
The Importance of Pet Dental Care
Good dental care is an essential part of your pet’s overall health. Just like people, dogs and cats can develop plaque, tartar, gum disease, and painful tooth infections if their teeth aren’t cared for. Dental disease doesn’t just affect the mouth—it can also impact your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Regular dental care helps prevent pain, keeps your pet’s breath fresh, and supports a longer, healthier life.
At Veterinary Wellness Partners, we take your pet’s dental health seriously. During a professional dental procedure, our team will carefully and thoroughly scale away plaque and tartar from every tooth, including below the gum line where disease often begins. We then polish the teeth to create a smooth surface that helps slow future buildup. Throughout the entire process, your pet is in the hands of our skilled and compassionate medical team, who monitor them closely to ensure their comfort and safety. Our goal is not only to give your pet a healthier smile, but also to protect their overall health and well-being.
How to Care for Your Pet’s Teeth
The best way to protect your pet’s dental health is through a combination of at-home care and professional veterinary cleanings. Brushing your pet’s teeth with a pet-safe toothpaste several times a week is the gold standard, but dental diets, treats, and chews approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) can also help reduce plaque and tartar. Even with good home care, most pets will need periodic professional cleanings under anesthesia so your veterinarian can clean below the gum line and check for hidden problems.
Quick Tips for Your Pet’s Dental Health
- Brush often: Aim to brush your pet’s teeth several times a week using a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Chews & treats: Choose VOHC-approved dental chews, treats, or diets to help reduce plaque and tartar.
- Schedule checkups: We will check your pet’s mouth at each visit and recommend when a professional cleaning is needed.
- Watch for warning signs: Bad breath, red gums, drooling, or difficulty eating may be signs of dental disease.
- Plan for cleanings: Even with good home care, most pets need professional dental cleanings under anesthesia to remove plaque and tartar under the gums.
