Why Dental Health Is Vital to Your Pet’s Overall Wellness
When we think about pet health, we often focus on vaccines, food, and exercise. But dental health is just as important—and unfortunately, it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of veterinary care. At Dominion Valley Animal Hospital, we provide professional dental services to help prevent disease, eliminate pain, and support your pet’s long-term wellness.
Most dogs and cats develop some form of periodontal disease by age three. This condition begins with plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to inflamed gums (gingivitis), bad breath, pain while chewing, tooth loss, and even infections that spread to the heart, kidneys, or liver.
Because pets often hide signs of pain, many owners don’t realize there’s a problem until the disease is advanced. That’s why regular dental exams and professional cleanings are so important. At Dominion Valley, we perform comprehensive oral evaluations, including digital dental X-rays that allow us to assess the teeth and roots below the gumline—where most disease begins.
If dental disease is present, we remove plaque and tartar from both above and below the gumline, polish the teeth, and perform extractions if necessary. We use modern anesthetic protocols and monitoring equipment to keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the procedure.
Preventive dental care is also part of your pet’s wellness plan. We’ll show you how to maintain oral health at home with toothbrushing, dental chews, and specialized diets. The earlier you start, the easier it is to keep your pet’s mouth clean and pain-free.
If your pet has bad breath, visible tartar, or signs of discomfort when eating, it’s time for a dental evaluation. Contact Dominion Valley Animal Hospital at (703) 753-4444 or visit us at 5371 Merchants View SquareHaymarket, VA 20169 to schedule your pet’s oral health exam and take a vital step toward total-body wellness.
