Your pet’s dental health affects much more than their breath. Dental disease can cause pain, infection, tooth loss, abscesses, and other health concerns that may go unnoticed until the problem has progressed. Because pets often hide discomfort, regular dental exams help us identify issues early and recommend care before they become more serious.
Protect your pet’s comfort and long-term health with dental care in St. Johns, FL. Call (904) 452-7387 or book an appointment online today.
Why Periodontal Disease in Pets Should Not Be Ignored
Periodontal disease begins when bacteria build up around the teeth and gums, leading to pain, infection, and damage below the gumline. During wellness exams, we check for signs of dental disease and may recommend a complete cleaning under carefully monitored anesthesia to keep your pet comfortable while we examine and clean the entire mouth.
Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care
Bad breath
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Pain or difficulty while eating
Drooling or pawing at the mouth
Discolored, broken, or loose teeth
What to Expect During Your Pet's Dental Cleaning
During your pet’s dental visit, our team may:
Take digital dental radiographs of the entire mouth to evaluate the teeth, roots, and jaw below the gumline
Remove tartar and plaque from the teeth
Check for loose, fractured, or painful teeth
Look for gum recession, pockets, and signs of periodontal disease
Document your pet’s oral health and create a treatment plan if needed
Polish the teeth to help slow future tartar buildup
Apply Sanos dental sealant to help prevent plaque buildup for 6 months
Perform additional treatments, such as extractions or bonding, when recommended
Advanced Dental Imaging Options
Some dental concerns require a more detailed view than standard dental radiographs can provide. For select dental procedures, Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital offers CT imaging as an add-on option.
CT imaging can provide a more detailed look at your pet’s teeth, jaw, bone structures, and surrounding tissues. Your veterinarian may recommend this added imaging when it could help with diagnosis, treatment planning, or a more complete understanding of your pet’s oral health.
How to Support Your Pet’s Dental Health at Home
Professional dental care is an important part of your pet’s health, but home care matters too. Brushing your pet’s teeth daily can help reduce plaque buildup and support healthier gums between veterinary visits.
Our team may also recommend dental diets, treats, chews, rinses, or other home-care products based on your pet’s needs. We recommend products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council, or VOHC, because these products have met standards for helping control plaque, tartar, or both.