At Woodland West Animal Hospital, we believe that dental care is one of the most important — and often overlooked — aspects of your pet’s overall health. Just like people, pets are vulnerable to plaque buildup, tartar, gum disease, and oral infections. What begins as simple “bad breath” can quickly progress into more serious dental disease that affects not only the mouth but also the entire body.
Why Dental Health Matters
Dental disease doesn’t just cause discomfort — it can have life-threatening consequences. Bacteria from infected gums and teeth can enter the bloodstream, traveling to the heart, liver, and kidneys, where they may cause significant health problems. Research shows that 80% of dogs and 70% of cats over the age of three already have some form of dental disease, making it the most common health condition in pets today.
What to Watch For
Many pets hide pain well, so dental issues may go unnoticed until they are advanced. Common signs of dental disease include:
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Bad breath (halitosis)
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Brown or yellow discoloration of the teeth
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Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
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Dropping food while eating or reluctance to eat
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Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth
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Loose or missing teeth
If you notice any of these symptoms, your pet may already have significant oral disease that requires professional attention.
Preventive & Professional Care
There are many ways to promote your pet’s dental health at home: daily or routine tooth brushing, dental chews, and regular inspection of your pet’s mouth. However, the most effective way to protect against dental disease is through professional veterinary cleanings. At Woodland West Animal Hospital, our dental procedures are performed under anesthesia for your pet’s comfort and safety.
Our cleanings include:
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A full oral examination to identify problems above and below the gum line
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Scaling and polishing of all teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup
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Cleaning beneath the gums where bacteria often hide and cause infection
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Dental X-rays, when needed, to evaluate roots and supporting bone structures
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Extractions of diseased or painful teeth, when necessary, to restore comfort and health
Our Commitment to Comfort & Safety
Your pet’s safety is our top priority. Before any dental procedure, we perform pre-anesthetic bloodwork to evaluate your pet’s overall health. Our team monitors your pet closely throughout the procedure using advanced anesthesia protocols and monitoring equipment. Pain management is also carefully tailored to each patient, ensuring they remain comfortable during and after their dental care.
Partnering With You for Lifelong Health
Good dental health requires a partnership between pet owners and veterinary professionals. We will work with you to design a dental care plan tailored to your pet’s individual needs — from teaching you proper brushing techniques to recommending the best dental chews, diets, or follow-up care.
📞 If your pet has bad breath, discolored teeth, difficulty eating, or other signs of dental disease, don’t wait until it becomes more serious. Call us today at 918-299-1208 to schedule an oral health evaluation and professional cleaning. By taking a proactive approach, you can add years of comfort and vitality to your pet’s life.
