Pet dental care isn’t optional—it’s essential to your dog or cat’s overall health and quality of life. Studies show that by age three, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease, one of the most common health problems our pets face. Left untreated, dental disease doesn’t just affect your pet’s mouth—it can lead to serious organ damage, chronic pain, and a significantly reduced quality of life.
Why Pet Dental Health Matters
Proper dental care is about much more than fresh breath, although that’s certainly a nice benefit! As periodontal disease progresses, it causes painful inflammation, tooth loss, and difficulty eating. Even more concerning, harmful bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs, causing damage to your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys. Regular dental care helps prevent serious health complications and supports your pet’s longer, more comfortable life.
Comprehensive Pet Dental Services
Winslow Park Animal Hospital offers complete oral health care for dogs and cats, including:
- Thorough dental exams
- Professional cleaning and polishing under anesthesia
- Digital dental X-rays
- Tooth extractions when necessary
- At-home dental care guidance
Following American Veterinary Medical Association guidelines, we perform all dental cleanings and procedures on anesthetized pets to ensure safety, comfort, and thoroughness. To confirm your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia, we require routine pre-anesthetic bloodwork before the procedure.
Warning Signs of Dental Disease
Watch for these indicators that your pet may need dental attention:
- Bad breath
- Drooling, chewing oddly, or dropping food
- Reduced appetite or behavior changes
- Pawing or rubbing at their mouth
- Facial swelling
- Loose, broken, or discolored teeth
- Bleeding gums or bloody saliva
At-Home Dental Care
Between professional cleanings, you can help maintain your pet’s oral health by brushing their teeth several times per week with pet-safe toothpaste. Dental chews, toys, and specialized diets can also reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Keep in mind that not all pet dental products are created equal — when shopping, look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval. Not sure how to get started? Our team is happy to demonstrate proper brushing techniques during your next visit. We recommend annual dental exams for all pets, with professional cleanings scheduled as needed based on your pet’s individual oral health.
To schedule a dental exam or cleaning at our Westport, CT veterinary hospital, call us at (203) 226-5555.