Dental disease is one of the most common health problems affecting dogs and cats, yet it is also one of the most overlooked. By the age of three, most pets have some degree of periodontal (gum) disease. Left untreated, dental disease can cause chronic pain, tooth loss, infections, difficulty eating, and can contribute to inflammation that may affect other organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver.
At Lakeshore Animal Clinic, our goal is not just to clean your pet’s teeth—it is to identify and treat dental disease, relieve pain, and help preserve healthy teeth whenever possible.
Picture 1 Healthy tooth with healthy roots.
Picture 2 Painful damaged root that would have resulted in an abscess.
Many dental problems occur below the gumline, where they cannot be seen during a routine examination. This is why we recommend professional dental procedures performed under general anesthesia. Anesthesia allows us to safely examine every tooth, obtain full-mouth dental radiographs, thoroughly clean above and below the gumline, and treat painful disease while keeping your pet comfortable throughout the procedure.
We do not recommend “anesthetic-free” dental cleanings. While they may improve the appearance of the visible teeth, they do not address the disease hidden beneath the gums where the majority of dental problems occur. Without treating the underlying infection, pets may continue to experience pain even if their teeth appear cleaner.
Every dental procedure begins with a thorough oral examination and full-mouth dental radiographs to evaluate the health of each tooth and its supporting structures. Depending on what we find, treatment may include:
Our veterinarians will discuss the findings with you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan based on your pet’s individual needs.
The best dental care begins at home. Regular tooth brushing, dental diets, approved dental chews, water additives, and routine veterinary examinations all help slow the progression of dental disease. Combined with professional dental cleanings when needed, these measures can significantly improve your pet’s oral health and quality of life.
A healthy mouth means more than fresh breath—it means less pain, better overall health, and a happier pet. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive dental care using modern diagnostic tools and treatment options to keep your pet comfortable for years to come.
If you have concerns about your pet’s dental health or would like to schedule a dental assessment, we’d be happy to help.