Dental Disease in Pets: More Than Just Bad Breath
Most pet owners don’t realize that dental disease is one of the most common health issues affecting dogs and cats today. By the age of three, most pets already have some form of periodontal disease—and if left untreated, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even infections in other parts of the body. At Urbana Veterinary Clinic, we take dental health seriously because it plays a crucial role in your pet’s overall well-being.
When plaque and tartar build up along the gumline, bacteria begin to multiply. Over time, this leads to inflammation of the gums, known as gingivitis. As the condition progresses, it can damage the tissue and bone that support your pet’s teeth, resulting in periodontitis. In advanced cases, bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Signs of dental disease in pets may include bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, bleeding gums, and changes in eating habits. Unfortunately, many pets suffer in silence because they adapt to discomfort. That’s why regular dental exams are so important—many problems go undetected until they’re advanced.
At Urbana Veterinary Clinic, our dental services begin with a thorough oral exam during your pet’s wellness visit. If we see signs of dental disease, we may recommend a professional cleaning under anesthesia. This allows us to remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, take dental X-rays, and extract any teeth that are severely damaged.
We use modern, safe anesthetic protocols and monitoring equipment to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Once the cleaning is complete, we’ll work with you on a home care plan that may include tooth brushing, dental diets, or chews to maintain oral health between visits.
Preventive dental care not only improves your pet’s comfort—it also supports long-term health and helps avoid more costly problems later. If it’s been more than a year since your pet’s last dental evaluation, or if you’ve noticed signs of oral discomfort, contact Urbana Veterinary Clinic at (937) 653-7326 or visit us at 985 Norwood Ave, Urbana, OH 43078 to schedule an exam. We’re here to keep those tails wagging and those mouths smiling.
