Good oral health is essential to your pet’s overall well-being. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats, often going unnoticed until it causes pain, infection, or difficulty eating. Regular dental care—including professional cleanings and at-home maintenance—helps prevent serious health problems and keeps your pet healthy and comfortable.
Why Dental Care is Important for Pets
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?
A professional dental cleaning goes far beyond what can be done at home. The process includes:
- Pre-Surgical Evaluation: Before the procedure, we assess your pet’s overall health and may perform bloodwork to ensure they are safe for anesthesia
- Anesthesia for Comfort & Safety: Anesthesia allows for a thorough cleaning, including under the gemlike, where most dental disease begins. It also keeps your pet stress-free and comfortable.
- Scaling & Polishing: Plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth, and the enamel is polished to prevent further buildup.
- Extractions & Treatment: If diseased or damaged teeth are found, we discuss treatment options and, if necessary, perform extractions to relieve pain and prevent infection
Dental Extractions
If your pet’s teeth show decay, root resorption, retained baby teeth, or signs of infection, we may recommend an extraction. While it might sound extreme, dental extractions are often the fastest way to relieve oral pain and improve your pet’s comfort. We use local anesthetic blocks and gentle techniques to ensure your pet is as comfortable as possible during and after the procedure.
Many pet owners report that their pet is noticeably happier, more playful, and eating better within days of having diseased teeth removed.
How Can I Tell if My Pet Has Dental Problems?
Your pet may need a dental if you notice:
- Bad breath
- Difficulty eating
- Excessive drooling
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Loose or missing teeth
- Tartar buildup on teeth
- Pawing at the mouth
If your pet is showing any of these signs, scheduling a dental check-up can help prevent more serious issues from developing.
Common Pet Dental FAQ's
How Often Should My Dog or Cat Get a Dental Cleaning?
Most pets benefit from a professional dental cleaning once per year, but some breeds may need more frequent care. We’ll help create the right schedule based on your pet’s age, breed, and oral health.
Is Anesthesia Required for Pet Dental Cleanings?
Yes. Anesthesia is necessary to properly and safely clean beneath the gumline, which is where dental disease begins. It also keeps your pet still, comfortable, and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Does Pet Dental Health Affect Overall Health?
Yes—dental disease can lead to infections that impact your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys. Preventive dental care plays a key role in long-term health and quality of life.
A Better, Happier Life Starts Now!
Your pet deserves a healthy smile. Call us today at Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Lake Charles to schedule a dental exam or professional cleaning and take the next step toward your pet’s comfort and wellness.
Schedule AppointmentCall Now: (337) 508-0640