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Why Dental Care is Important for Pets

Dental disease is one of the most common—and most overlooked—health issues in cats and dogs, often developing by the time pets are just 3 years old. Without proper care, harmful bacteria can slip below the gumline, leading to painful inflammation, infection, and damage to the teeth and surrounding tissue.

If left untreated, dental disease can do more than just affect your pet’s mouth—it can also impact their kidneys, liver, and heart, reducing their overall quality of life. The good news? Dental disease is preventable. With regular dental cleanings and at-home care, you can help protect your pet’s health from tooth to tail.

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

Pet Dental Extractions 

During your pet’s dental exam and cleaning, our veterinarian will closely evaluate the health of each tooth—both above and below the gumline. If we detect issues like decay, retained baby teeth, root resorption, inflammation, or infection, we may recommend a dental extraction to relieve pain and prevent further damage.

While it may sound serious, extractions are often the most effective and affordable solution for restoring your pet’s comfort and stopping the spread of disease. Many pet owners notice an immediate improvement in their pet’s mood, appetite, and overall behavior after recovery—showing just how much dental health impacts daily life.

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 Dentistry FAQ's

Is Anesthesia Required for Pet Dental Cleanings?

Yes. To thoroughly clean below the gumline, where disease often starts, and to safely assess each tooth, general anesthesia is required. We perform pre-anesthetic lab work and monitor your pet throughout the procedure to ensure their safety.

Why Dental Care is Important for Pets

Good oral health is a key part of your pet’s overall well-being. Dental disease is extremely common in both dogs and cats and often goes unnoticed until it causes pain, infection, or trouble eating.

By staying on top of your pet’s dental care—including routine professional cleanings and consistent at-home care—you can help prevent serious health problems, reduce discomfort, and keep your pet feeling their best for years to come.

How Often Should My Pet Receive a Dental?

Most pets benefit from professional dental cleanings once a year, but the ideal frequency depends on your pet’s age, breed, oral health, and at-home dental care routine.

Smaller breeds, senior pets, and those prone to dental disease may require cleanings every 6 to 12 months to keep their mouth healthy and pain-free. During your pet’s wellness exam, our team will evaluate their teeth and gums and recommend a dental care plan that fits their individual needs.

Routine dental cleanings are one of the best ways to prevent disease and support your pet’s long-term health.

A better, happier life starts now!

Call us today at Neighborhood Veterinary Centers Richmond to request an appointment and get started.

Schedule AppointmentCall Now: (281) 645-0666

Contact

Phone: (281) 645-0666

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Address

20711 Bellaire Blvd Ste. F
Richmond, TX 77407

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Monday – Friday:
8:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday:
8:00am – 12:00pm
Sunday: Closed