Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions we see in dogs and cats, yet it is also one of the most underestimated. While bad breath is often the first thing pet owners notice, the true impact of dental disease goes far beyond the mouth.

At The Pet Clinic, we consider dental care an essential part of your pet’s overall health—not just a cosmetic procedure.

What’s Really Happening Below the Gumline

By the age of three, most dogs and cats show signs of periodontal disease. This begins when plaque and bacteria accumulate along the gumline. Over time, this leads to inflammation, infection, and destruction of the tissues that support the teeth.

Importantly, the majority of dental disease occurs below the gumline, where it cannot be seen during a routine exam. This is why professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are so critical.

Dental Disease Is a Whole-Body Issue

Chronic oral infection doesn’t stay confined to the mouth. Bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation in other organs, including:

  • the heart

  • the kidneys

  • the liver

For senior pets or those with underlying medical conditions, untreated dental disease can significantly impact quality of life and long-term health.

Why Pre-Dental Blood Work Matters

Before any dental procedure, we recommend pre-anesthetic blood work. This allows us to evaluate organ function and tailor anesthesia protocols to your pet’s individual needs.

Blood work helps us:

  • identify hidden medical conditions

  • assess kidney and liver function

  • improve anesthetic safety

  • plan appropriate pain management

This step is especially important for senior pets and those requiring extractions.

When Are Dental Extractions Necessary?

While preserving teeth is always our goal, some teeth cannot be safely saved. Teeth affected by advanced periodontal disease are often painful and serve as a constant source of infection.

Extraction of diseased teeth:

  • relieves chronic pain

  • eliminates infection

  • allows gums to heal

  • improves appetite and comfort

Many pets feel noticeably better once painful teeth are removed—even within days.

February Is Dental Health Month

During February, we offer discounts on pre-dental blood work and dental extractions to help make this important care more accessible for our patients.

If you’ve noticed bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, or changes in behavior, a dental evaluation may be the next best step.

📞 Contact our team to schedule a dental exam and discuss whether a dental procedure is recommended for your pet.