Dental Care

Supporting Healthy Smiles and Comfortable Lives

Oral health plays a much bigger role in your pet’s overall well-being than many people realize. Without regular dental care, plaque and bacteria build up beneath the gumline, leading to inflammation, infection, and significant discomfort. Over time, those bacteria can enter the bloodstream and contribute to more serious health concerns affecting organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. At Beachwood Animal Clinic, we take dental health seriously because a healthy mouth helps support a healthier, happier life.

Dogs and cats are especially prone to dental disease. In fact, most pets show signs of periodontal disease by the time they reach just a few years of age. Routine dental exams and cleanings allow us to address problems early—often before pain or visible symptoms appear—and help prevent long-term complications.

What’s Included in a Professional Dental Cleaning?

Our dental services are designed to be thorough, gentle, and effective. A dental procedure at Beachwood Animal Clinic may include:

• A complete examination of the teeth and gums
• Digital dental X-rays to evaluate areas below the gumline
• Ultrasonic scaling to remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Polishing to smooth the tooth surface and slow future buildup
• Tooth extractions when needed to eliminate pain and infection

Your pet’s safety is always our top priority. Before any dental procedure requiring anesthesia, we perform pre-anesthetic bloodwork to help ensure your pet is healthy and prepared.

Maintaining Dental Health at Home

At-home care is an important part of keeping your pet’s mouth healthy between cleanings. Brushing your pet’s teeth several times a week is the most effective way to reduce plaque buildup. If brushing isn’t an option, our veterinarians can recommend alternatives such as dental chews, water additives, wipes, or prescription dental diets that support oral hygiene.

Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Attention

Dental disease often progresses quietly. Bad breath, difficulty chewing, drooling, or pawing at the mouth can all be signs that something isn’t right. If you notice any of these changes, scheduling a dental exam promptly can help prevent discomfort and more serious health issues.

If you have questions about dental care or think your pet may be due for an exam, the team at Beachwood Animal Clinic is here to help keep your pet smiling comfortably.