310 E. University Dr Granger, IN 46530
Protecting Your Pet from Dental Disease
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues seen in dogs and cats, yet it often goes unnoticed until it becomes advanced. Because pets rarely show obvious signs of dental pain, problems can develop quietly beneath the surface, affecting far more than just the teeth.
At University Park Veterinary Hospital in Granger, IN, we provide complete dental care, from routine cleanings to more involved treatment, helping protect both your pet's smile and their overall health. We are proud to offer this care to pet parents throughout Granger, South Bend, Mishawaka, Notre Dame, Elkhart, and Osceola in Indiana, as well as Niles, Buchanan, Edwardsburg, and Cassopolis in Michigan.
Why Dental Health Affects More Than the Mouth
Left untreated, dental disease does not stay contained to the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums and teeth can enter the bloodstream and travel to other organs, potentially affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver over time. Advanced dental disease is also painful, even though most pets instinctively hide this discomfort rather than showing obvious signs. Many pet owners are surprised to learn just how much better their pet feels, in terms of energy and appetite, after a dental issue that had gone unnoticed for months or years is finally addressed.
Signs of Dental Disease to Watch For
Because pets are skilled at masking discomfort, watching for physical and behavioral changes is often the best way to catch dental issues early.
- Bad breath that seems unusually strong or persistent
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Reluctance to eat, or chewing only on one side of the mouth
- Dropping food while eating
- Pawing at the face or mouth
- Loose or visibly broken teeth
- Excessive drooling
What a Dental Exam and Cleaning Involves
A professional dental cleaning goes well beyond what can be accomplished with home brushing alone. Because pets cannot stay still for a thorough cleaning, this procedure is performed under general anesthesia, allowing our team to safely clean below the gumline where periodontal disease actually begins. A typical dental procedure includes:
- A full oral exam to assess the condition of each tooth
- Dental X-rays to evaluate tooth roots and bone health below the gumline
- Scaling to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and below the gumline
- Polishing to smooth the tooth surface and slow future plaque buildup
- Extraction of any teeth that are severely damaged, infected, or beyond saving
Anesthesia and Safety During Dental Procedures
Because dental cleanings require general anesthesia, we take the same precautions used for any other surgical procedure. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork helps confirm that your pet's organs are healthy enough to safely process anesthesia, and continuous monitoring of heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure is maintained throughout the procedure. This approach allows us to perform a thorough, pain free cleaning while keeping your pet as safe as possible from start to finish.
Supporting Dental Health at Home
Professional cleanings are most effective when paired with consistent care between visits. Daily toothbrushing is the most effective way to slow plaque buildup, though dental chews, water additives, and specially formulated dental diets can also help support oral health for pets who will not tolerate brushing. Starting a dental care routine early, ideally while your pet is still young, makes it far easier to maintain healthy habits throughout their life.
How Often Pets Need Dental Care
Most adult dogs and cats benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year, though some pets, particularly smaller dog breeds prone to crowded teeth, may need cleanings more frequently. Our team evaluates your pet's dental health at every wellness visit and lets you know when a cleaning is recommended, helping you stay ahead of problems rather than waiting until dental disease has already progressed.