Does My Dog Need Dental Cleaning? Here’s What You Should Know!

Dental health is a crucial aspect of your pet’s overall well-being. It’s now common knowledge that mouth health is closely tied to overall health. So, if you’re asking, “Does my dog need dental cleaning?,” it’s a good time to learn about the signs of dental disease and the importance of proactive dental care for dogs & cats. At Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital, we’re here to help you protect your pet’s oral health and keep them smiling and healthy.

Does My Dog Need Dental Cleaning? 5 Signs That Your Pet May Need Dental Cleaning

Pets can’t tell us when something is wrong, but their behavior and physical symptoms can speak volumes. Look for these common signs that your pet needs dental care:

  • Bad breath: Persistent foul odors often indicate infection or advanced dental disease.
  • Difficulty eating: Avoiding food, chewing on one side, or dropping food may suggest tooth or gum pain, or loose teeth.
  • Swollen or bleeding gums: Red, inflamed, or bleeding gums could signal periodontal disease.
  • Loose or missing teeth: This often is a sign of advanced dental disease requiring immediate intervention.
  • Pawing at the mouth: This behavior might indicate discomfort or pain in your pet’s mouth.

Does My Dog Need Dental Cleaning? Why Dental Surgery Might Be Necessary

When dental disease progresses, professional intervention is crucial to protect your pet’s health. Routine dental cleanings focus on removing plaque and tartar to prevent disease, while dental surgery addresses more severe issues like fractured teeth, advanced gum disease, infections, or oral tumors. Dental surgery may be required for:

  • Tooth extractions: Severely decayed or broken teeth must be removed to alleviate pain and prevent further infection.
  • Abscess treatment: Dental infections can lead to painful abscesses that require surgical drainage.
  • Tumor removal: Oral growths or tumors may necessitate surgical removal and biopsy.
  • Severe periodontal disease: Advanced cases may require extensive cleaning and surgical repair of gums.

To learn more about what you can expect after your pet’s dental treatment, watch this video.

Does My Dog Need Dental Cleaning? How to Prevent the Need for Dental Surgery

Prevention is key to avoiding serious dental issues. Here’s how you can help:

  • Daily brushing: Use pet-safe toothpaste to brush your pet’s teeth regularly. We recommend using Virbac animal health line of C.E.T. Enzymatic toothpaste. To be pet-friendly, it must be fluoride-free and contain no xylitol (birch sugar), or hydrogen peroxide. Xylitol is particularly dangerous because it’s deadly for pets.
  • Routine dental checkups: Schedule regular veterinary exams to catch problems early.
  • Dental treats and toys: Offer approved products that promote oral health. We recommend the Virbac animal health line C.E.T. Veggiedents, C.E.T. Enzymatic chews, and C.E.T. IntelliDent Cat Dental Treats. You can pick these up at any of our three Mt. Pleasant, SC locations!
  • Professional cleanings: Periodic cleanings under anesthesia can prevent plaque and tartar buildup. We suggest getting your pet’s teeth cleaned every 6 to 12 months however, the frequency of cleanings may depend on the dog or cat’s breed and oral health conditions.

Home dental care and regular professional dental cleanings are key to helping prevent the need for pet dental surgeries. Learn more about how to properly brush your pet’s teeth by watching this video.

Does My Dog Need Dental Cleaning? Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Checkup Today!

Concerned about your pet’s dental health? The team at Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital can help. Call us today at (843) 884-4921 or book an appointment online. Together, we’ll ensure your pet has a healthy, pain-free smile. Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital in Mount Pleasant SC is part of a locally owned, family-owned network of animal hospitals known as Animal Hospitals of the Lowcountry. Our network of hospitals includes:

  • Mount Pleasant Animal Hospital: South, At Coleman Blvd and Old Village
  • Shuler Veterinary Clinic: Central, At Town Center
  • Safe Harbor Animal Hospital: North, At North MP and Hwy 41