Why Every Pet Parent Needs to Focus on Dental Health
Dental disease is one of the most common, and most underdiagnosed, health issues in cats and dogs. In fact, up to 90% of all cats and dogs show signs of gum disease by age three. And because pets are experts at hiding discomfort, most dental disease goes unnoticed until it's advanced.
Left untreated, dental problems can lead to:
- Bad breath
- Pain and difficulty eating
- Tooth loss
- Gum infections
- Bacteria spreading from the mouth to the heart, liver, or kidneys
That’s why regular dental care isn’t just about fresh breath and a shiny smile. It’s about protecting your pet from preventable pain and systemic disease that can shorten their life.
What to Expect During a Professional Dog & Cat Teeth Cleaning
Your pet’s dental visit at Sky Lake Animal Hospital begins with a full oral exam under anesthesia to assess the health of the teeth, gums, and jaw. This allows our team to perform a truly thorough cleaning while keeping your pet safe and pain-free.
A complete dental procedure includes:
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Oral examination under anesthesia, including digital dental X-rays
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Scaling with hand and ultrasonic tools to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
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Polishing to smooth enamel and help prevent future buildup
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Fluoride application to strengthen teeth
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Extractions or treatments if dental disease is found
If we discover anything concerning. like loose teeth, gingival hyperplasia, resorptive lesions, or deep pockets of infection, we’ll talk with you about the next steps and treatment options.
The Power of Digital Dental X-Rays
Some of the most serious dental issues in pets aren’t visible to the naked eye. That’s why we use digital dental radiography, which provides fast, detailed images that reveal hidden problems beneath the surface.
Digital X-rays help us:
- Detect dental disease early
- Evaluate tooth roots and bone health
- Plan for accurate, minimally invasive treatments
With clearer images and quicker results, we’re able to catch and treat dental disease long before it affects your pet’s quality of life.
