Dental Cleanings & Dental Radiology for Pets in Pembroke Pines, FL
Oral health is a critical — and often overlooked — part of your pet’s overall wellbeing. At Your Pets Vets in Pembroke Pines, FL, we provide professional dental cleanings and digital dental radiology to keep your pet’s teeth, gums, and mouth healthy. Call us at (954) 271-2703 to schedule your pet’s dental exam today.
Request an AppointmentThe Importance of Pet Dental Health
Many pet owners are surprised to learn that dental disease is one of the most common health conditions seen in dogs and cats — with studies showing that the majority of pets show signs of dental disease by age three. At Your Pets Vets in Pembroke Pines, FL, we believe that good oral health is directly connected to your pet’s overall wellbeing. Untreated dental disease can lead to chronic pain, tooth loss, and even serious systemic infections affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver. Routine dental care is one of the most impactful things you can do to extend and improve your pet’s quality of life.
Our dental services are performed by licensed veterinarians using modern equipment, including digital dental radiology, to provide a thorough and accurate picture of your pet’s oral health. Whether your pet needs a routine cleaning or treatment for advanced periodontal disease, the team at Your Pets Vets is here to help.
What to Expect During a Pet Dental Cleaning
Before any dental procedure, our team conducts a comprehensive pre-dental examination and blood evaluation to assess your pet’s organ function — specifically the liver and kidneys — to ensure they can safely undergo anesthesia. Anesthesia is used for all dental cleanings and x-rays because it allows our veterinarians to perform a thorough and pain-free exam while keeping your pet calm and still. While we understand this can feel concerning for some pet owners, anesthesia is absolutely essential for safe and effective dental care in animals.
During the dental exam, your veterinarian will carefully evaluate your pet’s teeth, gums, and oral tissues, noting any abnormalities such as fractures, loose teeth, or signs of infection. If periodontal disease is present or suspected, digital dental radiology (x-rays) will be taken to assess the damage below the gum line — where much of the disease is hidden from visual inspection. Unlike traditional x-ray film, digital dental x-rays produce clear, high-resolution images instantly with minimal radiation exposure, and can be viewed and discussed with you right away.
The cleaning itself involves removing tartar and plaque buildup from all surfaces of the teeth, followed by polishing to help prevent future buildup. In cases of advanced dental disease, tooth extractions may be necessary to relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection. Our team will always discuss findings and recommended treatments with you before proceeding.
Signs Your Pet May Need a Dental Exam
Pets can’t tell you when their mouth hurts, so it’s important to watch for the following warning signs that indicate your pet may be suffering from dental disease and needs to be seen at Your Pets Vets as soon as possible:
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Broken or loose teeth
- Discolored teeth or visible tartar buildup
- Abnormal chewing or dropping food
- Reduced appetite or reluctance to eat
- Bleeding from the gums or mouth
- Swollen or inflamed gums
- Pawing at the mouth or face
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, don’t wait. Contact Your Pets Vets at (954) 271-2703 to schedule a dental examination as soon as possible.
At-Home Dental Care Between Visits
Professional dental cleanings are important, but at-home dental care plays a significant role in maintaining your pet’s oral health between visits. Our veterinarians recommend beginning a gentle tooth-brushing routine using a toothbrush and toothpaste designed specifically for pets — never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to animals. Starting slowly and working from the front teeth to the back can help your pet become comfortable with the process over time.
Dental chews, water additives, and specially formulated dental diets can also complement your pet’s oral health routine. Our team can provide specific product recommendations based on your pet’s size and needs during your wellness visit or nutritional consultation. For a complete picture of your pet’s health, we may also recommend laboratory testing alongside dental care to monitor organ function and overall wellness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Dental Cleanings in Pembroke Pines
How often should my pet have a dental cleaning?
Most pets benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year, though some may need more frequent cleanings depending on their breed, age, and oral health status. Our veterinarians at Your Pets Vets will recommend the right schedule for your pet during their wellness exam.
Does my pet need to be put under anesthesia for a dental cleaning?
Yes. Anesthesia is required for all professional dental cleanings and dental x-rays in pets. It ensures your pet is safe, comfortable, and still throughout the procedure, allowing our veterinarians to perform a thorough cleaning and accurate examination. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is performed to confirm your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
What is digital dental radiology and why is it important for pets?
Digital dental radiology uses digital sensors to produce detailed x-ray images of your pet’s teeth and jawbone, including the roots below the gum line. This is critical because up to 60% of dental disease in pets occurs below the gumline and cannot be seen during a visual exam alone. At Your Pets Vets, we use digital dental x-rays which are faster, safer, and produce higher-quality images than traditional film x-rays.
What are the signs that my pet has dental disease?
Common signs include bad breath, visible tartar buildup, swollen or bleeding gums, loose or broken teeth, changes in eating behavior, and pawing at the mouth. If you notice any of these signs, contact Your Pets Vets at (954) 271-2703 promptly.
Can I brush my pet’s teeth at home?
Yes, and we highly recommend it! At-home brushing with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste helps slow plaque and tartar buildup between professional cleanings. Our team can walk you through how to introduce brushing safely and comfortably for your pet.
How does dental disease affect my pet’s overall health?
Untreated dental disease can cause chronic pain, tooth loss, and allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver. Regular dental care at Your Pets Vets is an important part of protecting your pet’s overall health, alongside routine wellness care and lab testing.
Does pet insurance cover dental cleanings?
Coverage varies by provider and plan. We recommend reviewing your policy or visiting our pet insurance page for guidance. We also offer financing options to help make dental care more affordable for your family.