Many pet parents don’t realize just how important dental health is for pets. It’s just as important for pets as it is for us, but it’s unfortunately often overlooked. At Lansdowne Animal Hospital in Leesburg, VA, we provide comprehensive dental care for pets across Ashburn, Loudoun, Lansdowne, Belmont, Sterling, and beyond. If you’re in the area and have perhaps been searching for a “veterinary dentist near me” or something similar, your search is over! Our experienced team is here to help with exams, cleanings, and education on at-home care.
In this blog from an Ashburn, VA veterinarian, we’ll explain why pet dental care is essential, how to recognize dental disease, and what you can do to keep your pet’s teeth healthy.
Why Is Pet Dental Care So Important?
Just like in humans, plaque and tartar build up on your pet’s teeth over time. Without proper care, this can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, infections, and even tooth loss. What’s more, bacteria from dental infections can travel through the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Dental problems can also cause chronic pain that affects your pet’s behavior and appetite. Fortunately, regular dental cleanings and home care can prevent many of these issues.
Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs And Cats
Dental disease often develops slowly, which means many pet owners miss early signs. Be on the lookout for:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Drooling or dropping food while eating
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Reluctance to chew hard food or toys
- Loose or missing teeth
If your pet shows any of these symptoms, schedule a dental exam right away. Dental issues won’t improve on their own and will continue to worsen over time. Dental problems can also be very painful. However, early treatment can make a difference. If your pet has tartar buildup, you may need to schedule a dental cleaning for pets to remove that gunk. Otherwise, it will lead to infection.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?
At Lansdowne Animal Hospital, we provide full-service dental cleanings under anesthesia to ensure your pet’s comfort and safety. Here’s what to expect:
- Pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork to ensure your pet is healthy for the procedure
- Full-mouth examination and dental charting
- Ultrasonic scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line
- Polishing to smooth enamel and reduce future buildup
- Dental x-rays to assess roots and detect hidden disease
If needed, we may perform extractions or other treatments to relieve pain and restore pets’ oral health.
How Often Do Pets Need Dental Care?
Most pets should have a professional cleaning at least once a year, typically during their regular veterinary appointments. Some may need them more often depending on breed, age, and oral health history. Small dogs and certain breeds are more prone to dental problems.
Annual dental exams help us catch issues early and tailor a care plan for your pet’s unique needs.
At-Home Dental Care Tips
Preventive care at home goes a long way in keeping your pet’s mouth healthy. Try incorporating these habits into your routine:
- Brush your pet’s teeth daily or a few times a week using pet toothpaste
- Use dental chews or toys approved by the VOHC
- Add dental rinses or water additives recommended by your vet
- Feed a dental diet if recommended
Brushing is the gold standard, but even a few times per week can reduce plaque buildup. Start slowly and use praise or treats to create a positive experience. If you’ve just adopted your furry friend, wait until you’ve bonded a bit before trying this.
The Link Between Dental Health and Whole-Body Wellness
Untreated dental disease doesn’t just cause mouth pain—it can impact your pet’s entire body. Chronic inflammation and bacteria in the mouth can:
- Damage internal organs
- Weaken the immune system
- Contribute to systemic illnesses
- Prevent your pet from chewing and eating properly
Regular dental care helps keep your pet feeling good and lowers the risk of other health problems down the road. That’s why we include oral exams in every wellness visit.
As you can probably guess, dental cleaning for pets are always done under anesthesia. Your vet will be able to offer more information, including signs of dental disease in dogs and cats,
Dental Care for Senior Pets
Older pets are especially vulnerable to dental disease. Many have gone years without professional cleanings. This can lead to advanced tartar buildup, gum recession, or tooth loss.
We offer gentle, senior-friendly dental care. Your pet is never too old to benefit from a healthier mouth.
How We Support Pet Dental Health at Lansdowne Animal Hospital
Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality veterinary dentistry. We use modern equipment and safe anesthetics, and we tailor each procedure to your pet’s age, size, and needs.Our goal is to help your pet live a pain-free, healthy life—starting with their smile.
Prioritize Your Pet’s Dental Health Today
Healthy teeth mean a happier, healthier pet. Whether your pet needs their first dental cleaning or ongoing maintenance, our team is here to help. If your furry buddy is in need of veterinary dentistry in Leesburg VA, give us a call!
Contact Our Leesburg, VA Animal Hospital For An Appointment
Do you know or suspect that your pet has dental trouble? If you’re a Leesburg, VA resident looking for a great vet, you can try searching ‘great vet near me’ or just call us! Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see here at Lansdowne Animal Hospital in Leesburg, VA. Schedule your pet’s dental exam today!
This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment plan for your pet and follow their advice.
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