Importance of Pet Dental Cleanings | Clifton Veterinary Clinic, Clifton TX
The Importance of Pet Dental Cleanings for Your Furry Family Member
At Clifton Veterinary Clinic in Clifton, Texas, we treat your pets like family. As pet lovers and dedicated animal health professionals, we want to help you understand why professional dental cleanings are so crucial for your dog or cat’s overall well‑being.
Why Pet Dental Health Matters
Dental disease is highly prevalent—by age three, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease. Plaque and tartar accumulate at the gum line, leading to inflammation (gingivitis), infection, and sometimes tooth loss. Worse yet, the bacteria responsible can enter the bloodstream and damage vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Recognizing the Signs
Pets are masters at hiding pain. But if you notice:
- Persistent bad breath
- Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
- Red, bleeding, or swollen gums
- Drooling, reluctance to chew, or favoring one side
- Loose or missing teeth
…it could be advanced dental disease, and regular veterinary exams become essential.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning at Clifton Veterinary Clinic?
At our Clifton clinic, each cleaning includes:
- A full oral exam of gums, lips, tongue, and teeth
- Dental radiographs (X‑rays) to evaluate the tooth roots and jaw below the gum line
- Scaling and cleaning above and under the gum line
- Polishing to smooth enamel and prevent plaque buildup
- Periodontal probing to assess any disease progression
- Application of fluoride or sealant where indicated
- Dental charting to monitor changes over time
- Extractions when necessary, under anesthesia for safety
General anesthesia is essential—it ensures your pet is comfortable, still, and protected from injury. It also enables our veterinary team to clean below the gum line, where the most harmful bacteria hide.
Benefits You Can See—and Feel
Professional cleanings offer numerous benefits:
- Prevent infection and tooth loss by removing harmful plaque and tartar before they damage gums and bones
- Decrease risk of systemic disease—oral bacteria translocation via the bloodstream may harm the heart, liver, or kidneys
- Eliminate pain and improve appetite—many pets eat more comfortably after dental treatment
- Freshen breath and improve overall quality of life
- Save money—treating early dental issues is far less costly (and less invasive) than full-mouth extractions or surgery later
At-Home Dental Care: Your Role
Professional cleanings are necessary—but they’re only one part of keeping your pet’s mouth healthy:
- Brush daily, or at minimum weekly, using pet-safe toothpaste and brushes or gauze wraps
- Dental chews, toys, or water additives that carry VOHC approval can help reduce plaque when brushing isn’t feasible
- Dental-formulated diets—especially kibble with abrasive texture and approved chemical compounds—can support oral hygiene in between visits
Combining daily care with chews or diets gives your pet the best chance at maintaining a healthy mouth between professional cleanings.
How Often Should My Pet Get a Cleaning?
Schedule a dental cleaning at least once a year as part of your wellness exam. However, factors like age, breed (esp. small or flat-faced breeds), diet, and home hygiene affect frequency—some pets benefit from cleanings every 6 to 9 months. Your veterinarian can tailor a schedule based on your pet’s specific needs.
Serving Clifton, TX: Why Choose Us
Clifton Veterinary Clinic is proud to serve families and pets right here in Clifton, TX. Our caring team combines experience with compassion, affordable pricing, and personalized attention. Whether your pet is a playful pup or a senior cat, we take the time to explain our dental process, address your concerns, and ensure your pet’s safety and comfort during the procedure.
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning Today
Don't wait for signs of dental disease—schedule a dental consultation or cleaning today. A healthy mouth supports years of happy purrs and wagging tails. Call Clifton Veterinary Clinic at (254) 675-8925 or visit us at 4117 Highway 6, Clifton, TX 76634 to book an appointment or to learn more about our dental services.
