Most pet owners know that brushing their own teeth is essential — but dental care for dogs and cats is often overlooked until there’s a visible problem. The truth is, by the time dental disease becomes obvious, it’s usually already been progressing for months. At Pet Xpert Animal Clinic in Apopka, FL, our veterinary team provides professional pet dentistry services designed to catch and treat dental issues early — before they affect your pet’s overall health. Call (407) 886-7387 to schedule a dental exam today.
How Common Is Dental Disease in Pets?
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), an estimated 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age three. Despite being one of the most prevalent health conditions affecting companion animals, dental disease is frequently underdiagnosed — largely because pets instinctively hide pain and discomfort.
Periodontal disease, the most common form of dental disease in pets, begins with plaque and tartar buildup and can progress to gum inflammation, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss. Bacteria from infected gums can also enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver — making dental disease far more than a cosmetic concern.
Warning Sign #1: Bad Breath
Some degree of “dog breath” is normal — but a foul, persistent odor from your pet’s mouth is not. Severe halitosis is often one of the first noticeable signs of periodontal disease or a tooth infection. If your pet’s breath has changed significantly or smells especially rotten, it’s time for a dental exam. Don’t assume bad breath is just a quirk — it’s usually a symptom worth investigating.
Warning Sign #2: Difficulty Eating or Dropping Food
Pets with dental pain may chew only on one side of their mouth, drop food while eating, or lose interest in meals they previously enjoyed. You might also notice a preference for soft food over hard kibble. These behavioral changes often indicate tooth pain, loose teeth, or oral sores that make chewing uncomfortable. If your pet’s eating habits have shifted noticeably, a dental exam should be the first step.
Warning Sign #3: Visible Tartar or Discolored Teeth
Healthy pet teeth should be relatively white or off-white with pink gums. Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth — especially near the gumline — is a sign of tartar accumulation that brushing alone won’t resolve. Discolored, cracked, or broken teeth are also causes for concern. Our team at Pet Xpert Animal Clinic can perform a thorough oral exam and recommend the appropriate level of cleaning or treatment.
Warning Sign #4: Red, Swollen, or Bleeding Gums
Healthy gums are firm and pink. Gums that appear red, swollen, or that bleed when your pet chews are signs of gingivitis — the earliest stage of periodontal disease. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, which causes irreversible damage to the tissues and bone supporting the teeth. Early intervention through professional dental cleaning can halt this progression and restore gum health.
Warning Sign #5: Pawing at the Mouth or Face
If your pet is frequently pawing at their mouth, rubbing their face against furniture, or shaking their head, they may be trying to relieve oral discomfort. Cats in particular may groom their face excessively when experiencing mouth pain. These behavioral cues — while subtle — are worth taking seriously and should prompt a veterinary exam.
What Happens During a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning?
At Pet Xpert Animal Clinic, professional dental cleanings are performed under general anesthesia to ensure your pet’s safety and allow for a thorough examination of every tooth surface, including below the gumline. We use specialized equipment to scale tartar from the teeth and polish enamel to reduce future plaque adhesion. We also take dental X-rays when needed to evaluate tooth roots and surrounding bone — areas that aren’t visible with the naked eye.
Our in-house laboratory allows us to run pre-anesthetic bloodwork the same day, and our monitoring equipment keeps a close eye on your pet’s vitals throughout the procedure. Most pets go home the same day and recover quickly.
How to Support Your Pet’s Dental Health at Home
Professional cleanings are important, but home care makes a big difference between visits. The gold standard is daily brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste. If your pet won’t tolerate a toothbrush, dental chews, water additives, and dental-specific diets can help reduce plaque buildup. Our team can show you the best techniques and products for your specific pet during your next visit.
Schedule a Dental Exam at Pet Xpert Animal Clinic
If your pet is showing any of the warning signs above — or if it’s simply been a while since their last dental exam — don’t wait. Early treatment is less invasive, less expensive, and better for your pet’s long-term health. Call Pet Xpert Animal Clinic at (407) 886-7387 or book an appointment online. We serve pets throughout Apopka, Winter Garden, Ocoee, Altamonte Springs, and the surrounding Apopka, FL area.
