Dental Care for Dogs and Cats

Dental health is one of the most important — and most overlooked — aspects of your pet’s overall wellness. At our Okemos veterinary hospital, we provide professional dental cleanings, digital dental X-rays, and periodontal treatment for dogs and cats. Untreated dental disease can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even heart, liver, and kidney complications. Our team proudly serves pets in Okemos, East Lansing, Haslett, and surrounding Michigan communities with safe, thorough veterinary dental care.

Why Dental Care Matters for Dogs and Cats

By age three, most dogs and cats show signs of periodontal disease. Plaque hardens into tartar, which accumulates beneath the gumline where bacteria cause inflammation and infection.

Without treatment, dental disease can cause:

• Chronic oral pain

• Bad breath (halitosis)

• Tooth root abscesses

• Bone loss

• Systemic infections affecting the heart and kidneys

Routine veterinary dental care significantly extends both lifespan and quality of life.

Our Professional Pet Dental Services

We offer comprehensive dental care including:

Full Oral Examination

A complete dental assessment under anesthesia to evaluate each tooth and the surrounding tissues.

Digital Dental X-Rays

Most dental disease occurs below the gumline. Digital radiographs allow us to detect hidden infections and bone loss.

Ultrasonic Scaling & Polishing

We remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, then polish teeth to slow future buildup.

Tooth Extractions (If Necessary)

When teeth are severely damaged or infected, we perform safe extractions to eliminate pain and infection.

Personalized Home Care Plans

We guide you on brushing techniques, dental diets, and approved dental chews.

Signs Your Pet May Need a Dental Exam

Schedule a dental evaluation if you notice:

• Bad breath

• Red or bleeding gums

• Dropping food while eating

• Pawing at the mouth

• Facial swelling

• Yellow or brown tartar buildup

Early treatment prevents costly and painful complications.

How Often Should Pets Have Dental Cleanings?

Most dogs and cats benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year. Some small breeds, brachycephalic breeds, and cats prone to resorptive lesions may require more frequent care.

During your pet’s annual wellness exam, we assess dental health and recommend a cleaning schedule tailored to their needs.