Why Dental Care Is Essential for Dogs and Cats
February is National Pet Dental Health Month, making it the perfect time to focus on one of the most overlooked aspects of pet health: oral care. Just like people, dogs and cats rely on healthy teeth and gums for overall well-being—not just a nice smile!
What Are Veterinary Dentals?
A veterinary dental procedure is a professional cleaning and evaluation of your pet’s teeth performed under anesthesia. This allows us to thoroughly and safely care for your pet’s mouth while keeping them comfortable and stress-free.
A dental procedure typically includes:
- A complete oral exam of the teeth, gums, and mouth
- Removal of plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Dental X-rays to evaluate the roots and jawbone
- Polishing the teeth to help slow future plaque buildup
- Treatment of any dental disease, including extractions if necessary
Many dental problems occur below the gumline, where they can’t be seen during a routine exam. Dental X-rays are critical for detecting painful issues that may otherwise go unnoticed.
Why Are Dentals So Important?
Over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age three. Dental disease doesn’t just cause bad breath—it can significantly affect your pet’s comfort and overall health.
Without proper dental care, pets can develop:
- Painful gum infections (gingivitis and periodontal disease)
- Loose, fractured, or infected teeth
- Oral abscesses
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Chronic pain that pets often hide very well
Even more concerning, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Disease
Pets are experts at masking pain, so dental disease often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe. Some common signs include:
- Bad breath
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup
- Dropping food or chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth
- Decreased appetite or behavioral changes
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to schedule an exam as soon as possible.
VOHC-Approved Products: What Does That Mean?
When it comes to at-home dental care, we often recommend products that are VOHC approved. VOHC stands for the Veterinary Oral Health Council, an independent organization that evaluates dental products for pets.
Products that earn the VOHC Seal of Acceptance have been scientifically tested and proven to help reduce plaque and/or tartar in dogs and cats. This seal helps pet owners identify products that are both safe and effective.
VOHC-approved products may include:
- Dental chews
- Toothpastes
- Dental diets
- Water additives
Not every pet can use every product, so our team can help guide you toward the best VOHC-approved options based on your pet’s age, size, and oral health.
You can also explore approved products directly at the VOHC website:
Dental Care Improves Quality of Life
Routine dental care helps your pet:
- Eat comfortably
- Stay pain-free
- Avoid unnecessary tooth loss
- Maintain better overall health
- Live a longer, happier life
Preventive dentals are often less invasive, less costly, and far more comfortable than waiting until advanced disease develops.
What Can You Do at Home?
At-home dental care is a great complement to professional cleanings. We may recommend:
- Daily or regular tooth brushing
- VOHC-approved dental chews or diets
- Oral rinses or water additives
Not all products are created equal, so always ask us which options are safest and most effective for your pet.
Let’s Keep Those Smiles Healthy!
Dental health is a key part of your pet’s overall wellness. During Pet Dental Health Month, we encourage you to talk with our team about your pet’s oral health and whether a dental procedure is recommended.
If you have questions or would like to schedule a dental evaluation, we’re here to help every step of the way — with your pet’s comfort, safety, and happiness as our top priorities.