Dentistry - Arlington Animal Hospital

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Dentistry

Pet dental health is often overlooked but has critical implications for your pet’s quality of life and well-being. Our team provides professional pet dentistry services to prevent dental problems and treat existing oral health conditions. Our team also recognizes the importance of dental home care and can provide education, instruction, and product selection assistance.

Why Dental Care Matters

Did you know that pets need the same oral care as people, including daily toothbrushing and routine professional cleanings? Unfortunately, many pets suffer from poor oral health, which can lead to pain, infection, and systemic problems affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. Proper dental care helps prevent plaque and tartar buildup, keeps your pet’s teeth and gums healthy, and contributes to a good quality of life.

Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease affects nearly all pets by age 3, impacting the gums, bones, and other tooth-supporting oral tissues. It begins when sticky plaque coats the teeth and hardens into tartar, allowing bacteria to accumulate and causing gum inflammation (i.e., gingivitis). Left untreated, periodontal disease progresses and causes pain, tooth loss, and difficulty eating or playing. Additionally, bacteria from infected gum tissue can leak into the bloodstream and affect important organs, including the heart.

Dental Examinations

Regular dental exams are essential for detecting and addressing dental issues before they become serious. During a dental exam, our veterinarians thoroughly inspect your pet’s teeth and gums, looking for signs of plaque, tartar, gum disease, broken or loose teeth, and other oral problems. Our veterinarians can perform a brief dental exam when your pet visits for routine wellness care.

Dental X-rays

Most tooth problems in dogs and cats occur below the gum line, where you cannot see them. Dental X-rays provide focused images that allow us to see each tooth’s entire structure, including the root, and identify common issues, including tooth root abscesses, bone loss, tooth resorption, and unerupted teeth. Our veterinary team performs full-mouth/targeted/pre-operative/post-operative dental X-rays each time your pet is anesthetized for a dental cleaning or oral surgery.

Dental Cleanings

During a professional dental cleaning/COHAT, we remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gum line, take dental X-rays, and polish your pet’s teeth. Our veterinarians perform a comprehensive oral examination and appropriately treat problem teeth. Our team is skilled in providing thorough and gentle cleanings to keep your pet’s mouth in optimal condition.