How Gum Disease Affects Your Pet’s Health
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats—affecting up to 90% of pets by age three. The problem starts when plaque hardens into tartar, allowing bacteria to spread below the gumline. Left untreated, this can lead to:
- Painful infections that make it difficult to eat and chew
- Gum recession and tooth loss, affecting jaw structure
- Abscesses that cause swelling, discomfort, and infection
- Bacteria entering the bloodstream, potentially leading to heart, kidney, and liver disease
Many pets suffer in silence because they instinctively hide their pain. That’s why routine dental exams and cleanings are so important—they allow us to catch and treat issues before they cause serious health problems.
What Happens During a Professional Cat or Dog Teeth Cleaning?
At Mulberry Grove Animal Hospital, we perform professional dental cleanings in our dedicated dental suite every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Our dental procedures are designed to be thorough, safe, and stress-free for your pet. Here’s what you can expect:
Before we begin cleaning your pet’s teeth, we examine their entire oral cavity, including teeth, gums, tongue, palate, and other tissues within the mouth for signs of infection, fractured teeth, or gum disease.
Because dental disease often hides beneath the surface, digital X-rays allow us to detect problems that aren’t visible to the naked eye.
We use hand tools and ultrasonic scalers to gently remove plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline. This is the only way to reverse periodontal disease and prevent tooth loss.
After the tartar is removed, we polish the teeth to smooth the enamel and help prevent future buildup. Fluoride treatment helps strengthen the teeth.
If a tooth is too damaged to be saved, we perform safe extractions. We also provide local nerve blocks for pain control and laser therapy to speed up healing.
How to Provide At-Home Dental Care for Your Pet
Regular professional cleanings are essential, but daily at-home dental care is just as important in preventing plaque buildup and gum disease. Here’s how you can help maintain your pet’s oral health at home:
Give Your Pet the Gift of a Healthy Smile
Dental disease is painful, but it’s also preventable. With regular professional teeth cleanings and at-home care, your pet can enjoy strong, healthy teeth for years to come. Our team is dedicated to making dental procedures as comfortable and effective as possible, so your pet can eat, play, and live without pain.
Don’t wait until your pet is in discomfort—schedule their dental cleaning today! Call us at (352) 245-9009 or click below to book an appointment and take the first step toward better oral health for your furry friend.
