When your dog greets you with a wagging tail or your cat curls up for snuggles, the last thing you want is bad breath getting in the way of those lovely moments. But did you know there is much more to your pet’s smile than meets the eye? At Summit Dog and Cat Hospital, we believe healthy teeth and gums are essential for every happy, thriving pet in Summit, Chatham, Madison, Westfield, and Springfield, NJ.
Why Pet Dental Cleaning Matters
Pets don’t brush and floss like we do, obviously. Yet, their mouths play host to the same bacteria, plaque, and tartar that can cause dental disease in humans. If left unchecked, dental problems become stealthy troublemakers. Over time, tartar buildup can lead to inflamed gums, painful infections, and tooth loss. Worse still, bacteria from dental disease can sneak into the bloodstream and affect major organs like the heart and kidneys.
Imagine your pet’s mouth as a garden: when it is well-tended, everything blooms; when neglected, hidden problems take root. Routine cat or dog teeth cleanings are the best way to keep that garden healthy.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?
At Summit Dog and Cat Hospital, we offer gentle, thorough dental cleanings designed to make your pet’s mouth sparkle and stay healthy. Here is what you can expect:
• Complete Oral Exam: We check every tooth, gum, and nook for signs of trouble, even those hidden below the gumline.
• Anesthesia: For your pet’s safety and comfort, cleanings are performed under anesthesia. This ensures a thorough cleaning and less stress for your pet.
• Scaling & Polishing: We remove tartar and plaque above and below the gumline, then polish teeth until they shine.
• Home Care Guidance: We’ll show you simple techniques to keep your pet’s teeth healthy between visits, from brushing tips to dental treats.
Signs Your Pet Needs Dental Attention
Watch for bad breath, red gums, loose teeth, trouble eating, or pawing at the mouth. These could be signals that it’s time for professional pet dental care.
Call Our Vets near You to Keep That Tail Wagging and Breath Fresh!
Your pet’s healthiest days begin with a happy mouth. Schedule a dental cleaning at Summit Dog and Cat Hospital in Summit, NJ, and give your best friend a truly fresh start, because every great adventure begins with a smile! Call us today at (908)-273-2200.
Summit Dog & Cat Hospital
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your visit.
What happens during a professional pet dental cleaning?
The veterinary team examines the mouth, removes plaque and tartar from the teeth and below the gum line, and polishes the tooth surfaces. The veterinarian also checks for periodontal disease, damaged teeth, infection, and other problems that may require treatment.
Does a pet dental cleaning require anesthesia?
Professional dental cleaning is generally performed under anesthesia so the team can clean below the gum line and examine the entire mouth safely. Anesthesia also prevents sudden movement, reduces stress, and protects the pet’s airway during scaling and rinsing.
Will my pet receive dental X rays during the cleaning?
Dental X rays may be recommended to evaluate the tooth roots and jawbone, especially when the veterinarian finds pain, periodontal pockets, broken teeth, missing teeth, or other abnormalities. The need for imaging is based on the examination and the hospital’s dental protocol.
What should I expect when my pet comes home after dental cleaning?
Your pet may be sleepy and may need a smaller meal after returning home. Follow the discharge instructions for food, medication, activity, and oral care. If extractions or other treatments were performed, recovery instructions may include soft food and a scheduled recheck.
How often should dogs and cats have professional teeth cleaning?
The right schedule depends on age, breed, home care, previous dental disease, and how quickly tartar develops. Summit Dog & Cat Hospital recommends regular oral examinations and can advise whether yearly cleaning or a different interval is appropriate for your pet.