What Happens At A Dental Exam?

October 27, 2021

You may have heard before that pets need to go to the dentist just as often as humans do. Is this true? In short, yes! Proper preventative steps for your pet include comprehensive dental care and dental exams every 6-12 months.  

 

Want to learn more about what happens during a dental exam at the vet? Read more to find out.  

 

Annual Wellness 

During your pet's Annual Wellness appointment, the doctor will examine your pet's teeth and gum line. At this time they will discuss whether or not a dental cleaning should be performed. 

 

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning? 

  • Routine prophylaxis removes the plaque and tartar above and below the gum line. Your pet’s teeth are also polished and checked for periodontal disease. 
  • Digital dental radiographs or x-rays are used to find problems in the teeth, gums, and joints that cannot be seen with our eyes. 

 

When a pet hasn’t been to the dentist in a long time, they may be in need of other interventions, like:  

  • Dental extractions remove teeth that are loose, diseased, or causing chronic pain or carrying harmful bacteria and disease. 

 

To make pets as comfortable as possible during their dental exam, they will be supported similarly to a veterinary surgical patient, including: 

  • continual monitoring when anesthesia is used 
  • intravenous (IV) fluids 
  • blanket to maintain body temperature 

 

Why Are Regular Dental Exams So Important? 

Preventive care can avoid unnecessary pain and illness for your loved one. Also, identifying issues early can limit the damage. For example, when periodontal disease is detected and treated early, your pet can avoid potentially greater (more painful and expensive) problems. 

  

Our staff is continually trained on the top and most up-to-date dental care practices, so you can be sure your pet is receiving the best care. 

 

Can’t remember the last time your pet had a dental appointment? Your pet is likely overdue - schedule an appointment now. 


June 6, 2025
Compassionate veterinary clinic offering expert pet care, wellness exams, vaccinations, and emergency services to keep your furry friends happy and healthy.
animal hospital
By Michael Rayburn May 7, 2025
Pets are family, and their health often depends on our ability to spot subtle changes before they become serious. Animal hospitals like Pet Medical Center play a critical role in safeguarding your pet’s well-being through advanced diagnostics, routine care, and preventive strategies. Whether it’s catching early signs of illness or providing specialized treatments, these facilities act as a frontline defense against preventable health issues. Here’s how proactive care at an animal hospital can make all the difference. Why Early Detection Matters Pets instinctively hide pain and discomfort, making it harder to recognize problems until they’ve progressed. Regular check-ups at an animal hospital help bridge this gap. For example, bloodwork or urinalysis during a wellness exam can reveal early indicators of diabetes, kidney disease, or infections-conditions that might not show visible symptoms for months. At Pet Medical Center, veterinarians use tools like diagnostic ultrasounds and X-rays to identify internal issues, such as tumors or organ abnormalities, before they escalate. Early intervention often translates to simpler treatments, lower costs, and better outcomes for your pet. Core Services at an Animal Hospital 1. Wellness Exams and Preventive Care Routine visits to an animal hospital are like annual physicals for humans. These exams include weight monitoring, dental checks, and parasite screenings to catch issues like heartworm or tick-borne diseases. Pet Medical Center emphasizes vaccinations tailored to your pet’s lifestyle, ensuring protection against rabies, distemper, and other preventable illnesses. 2. Advanced Diagnostics Modern animal hospitals rely on technology to go beyond surface-level observations. For instance, EKGs can detect irregular heart rhythms, while allergy testing identifies triggers behind chronic itching or ear infections. Pet Medical Center’s in-house lab services deliver rapid results, allowing vets to start treatments immediately rather than waiting days for external reports. 3. Surgical and Dental Care From spaying/neutering to soft-tissue surgeries, animal hospitals handle procedures that require precision and sterile environments. Dental cleanings are equally critical, as periodontal disease can lead to heart or kidney complications if untreated. Pet Medical Center offers anesthesia-free scaling for pets with mild tartar buildup and full dental surgeries for advanced cases. Recognizing Early Warning Signs at Home While animal hospitals provide professional care, pet owners should watch for subtle changes: Appetite shifts: Sudden disinterest in food or excessive hunger could signal metabolic disorders. Lethargy: If your playful pup now naps all day, it might indicate pain or illness. Unusual bathroom habits: Straining to urinate or frequent diarrhea warrants a vet visit. Pet Medical Center encourages clients to keep a health journal tracking these behaviors. Sharing this with your vet during appointments helps pinpoint patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. The Role of Nutrition and Lifestyle Preventive care isn’t just about vet visits-it’s also about daily habits. Animal hospitals often collaborate with pet owners to design nutrition plans that address weight management or allergies. For example, Pet Medical Center might recommend high-fiber diets for pets prone to digestive issues or joint supplements for aging dogs. Exercise routines tailored to your pet’s breed and age can also prevent obesity-related conditions like arthritis or diabetes. Emergency Care and Chronic Condition Management When accidents happen, animal hospital near me provides stabilization and surgery for fractures, poisoning, or trauma. For pets with chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart disease, facilities like Pet Medical Center offer long-term management plans, including medication adjustments and regular monitoring. Hospice care ensures comfort for terminally ill pets, prioritizing quality of life through pain management and emotional support for families.
April 22, 2025
Protect your furry friend with essential dog vaccinations. Learn about core vaccines, schedules, and how they help keep your pet healthy and safe.
April 22, 2025
Compassionate care for your pets at our trusted animal hospital. Expert veterinary services to keep your furry friends healthy and happy every day.
laser therapy for cats in Ames, IA
November 15, 2024
Discover how laser therapy for cats in Ames, IA, can relieve pain, promote healing, and improve your feline's quality of life.
pet neutering in Ames, IA
October 15, 2024
Learn about pet neutering in Ames, IA. Discover what to expect before, during, and after the procedure to ensure your pet's comfort and safety.
kitten wellness in Ames, IA
September 15, 2024
Learn why a visit for kitten wellness in Ames, IA, is crucial. Ensure your kitten's health with early care, vaccinations, and expert advice.
pet hospital in Ames IA
August 15, 2024
Discover five common reasons to visit a pet hospital in Ames, IA. Ensure your pet's health and well-being with expert care from local veterinarians.
pet dental care in Ames
July 15, 2024
Discover top tips for pet dental care in Ames, IA. Keep your pet's teeth healthy with expert dental care services in Ames, IA.
annual pet exam
June 14, 2024
Discover what to expect during your annual pet exam, including essential check-ups, vaccinations, and health tips.
More Posts