Silent Pain: How Dental Disease Affects Your Pet’s Heart, Kidneys, and Longevity
By age three, over 80% of dogs and cats show active signs of periodontal disease. Because pets rarely show obvious signs of pain, dental problems often go unnoticed until severe infections or tooth loss develop.
At Westside Family Pet Clinic, we provide full-service veterinary dentistry—from routine ultrasonic cleanings to digital dental x-rays and oral surgery—for pet parents throughout Norfolk, Pierce, Bloomfield, and Albion.
Common Symptoms of Pet Dental Disease
- Persistent Bad Breath: A strong, foul odor is an indicator of bacteria buildup, not just "dog breath."
- Yellow or Brown Tartar: Heavy buildup along the gumline.
- Red, Bleeding, or Swollen Gums: Signs of active gingivitis.
- Changes in Eating Habits: Dropping kibble, chewing on one side of the mouth, or refusing hard food.
- Pawging at the Mouth or Drooling: Signals significant oral discomfort or a fractured tooth.
The Hidden Danger: Systemic Health Risks
Dental disease isn't just an isolated mouth problem. Bacteria living beneath inflamed gums can enter your pet's bloodstream, potentially causing secondary damage to essential organs:
- Heart Disease: Bacterial endocarditis and valve inflammation.
- Kidney & Liver Damage: Chronic strain from filtering internal bacteria.
- Chronic Pain: Tooth root abscesses cause deep, persistent facial pain.
What Happens During a Veterinary Dental Exam at Westside?
- Full Oral Evaluation: Checking gum pocket depth and tooth stability.
- Digital Dental Radiographs (X-rays): Evaluating the 60% of the tooth structure hidden beneath the gumline.
- Ultrasonic Scaling & Polishing: Removing plaque and smoothing enamel to deter future buildup.
- Surgical Extractions (If Needed): Safely removing dead, fractured, or painful teeth.
Is your pet due for a dental checkup? Schedule a comprehensive physical and oral exam with the Westside Family Pet Clinic dental team today!
