In our dental suite, we can fully evaluate your pet’s dental health with our digital dental x-rays. We perform routine dental cleanings as well as the most complicated surgical extractions. A healthy pet starts with a healthy mouth.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF PET DENTAL ISSUES?
Gingivitis in cats and dogs is a common dental condition characterized by red, inflamed gums. Our team is skilled in diagnosing gingivitis, implementing appropriate treatment plans that alleviate discomfort and prevent further progression of this disease. We provide professional dental care, including scaling and polishing, to improve the health of your pet's teeth and gums.
Dog and cat plaque removal is an essential aspect of dental care. Plaque can accumulate on your pet's teeth, leading to dental issues such as cavities, gum disease (gingivitis), and bad breath. Our dental cleanings involve the removal of plaque, helping to maintain a healthy mouth for your dog.
Healthy gums should be pink and free from inflammation or discoloration. If you notice any changes in your dog's gum color or if they appear black, your pet has bad breath, or he or she paws at the mouth or is reluctant to eat their food, our veterinary team can perform a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
PLAN AHEAD, SAVE 10% ON PET DENTAL CLEANINGS
A healthy pet is a happy pet, and we’re here to make that care easier. When you schedule your pet’s dental cleaning, spay, neuter, or mass removal within 30 days of their last exam, you’ll receive 10% off your total procedure cost.
This offer has no expiration date and is available year-round for both cats and dogs.
WHAT IS THE BEST SOLUTION FOR MY PET?
Cat teeth cleaning and dog dental cleaning are necessary to maintain optimal oral health. Preventative care is of the utmost importance in order to not have problems later. Our veterinarians and dental technicians are experienced in performing these procedures, ensuring that your pet receives gentle and effective dental care.
Regular dental check-ups are essential to detect and address dental issues early on. Our team is trained to identify and treat various dental conditions in dogs and cats, including gingivitis and periodontal disease. We provide comprehensive dental examinations, dental radiographs, and other diagnostic tools to evaluate your pet's oral health thoroughly.
The Stages of Periodontal Disease in Pets
By age three, more than two-thirds of dogs and cats have some degree of periodontal disease — and most pet parents have no idea. Pets are remarkably good at hiding dental pain. They keep eating, keep playing, and only stop when the disease is advanced.
Periodontal disease progresses in four stages:
- Stage 1 — Gingivitis: Gums are red and slightly inflamed. Plaque is present but bone is intact. Reversible with a professional cleaning.
- Stage 2 — Early Periodontitis: Up to 25% of bone support is lost around affected teeth. Bad breath is common. Still treatable with cleaning and good home care.
- Stage 3 — Moderate Periodontitis: 25–50% bone loss. Some teeth may be loose, and your pet is almost certainly in pain even if they aren't showing it. Extractions may be needed.
- Stage 4 — Advanced Periodontitis: More than 50% bone loss. Teeth are loose, infection is widespread, and the bacteria can affect the heart, kidneys, and liver. Multiple extractions are typical.
Every dental cleaning at Acorn Hill includes full-mouth digital dental X-rays — because more than half of dental disease lives below the gum line where we can't see it. That's how we catch problems early, save teeth that can be saved, and remove only those that can't.
Home care matters too. Daily brushing is the gold standard, but VOHC-approved dental chews, water additives, and prescription dental diets all help slow the buildup of plaque between professional cleanings.
FAQs for Dentistry
How often does my pet need a dental cleaning?
Most pets benefit from a professional cleaning every 12–24 months, though some breeds (small dogs, brachycephalic breeds, cats) often need cleanings annually. Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule based on your pet's mouth.