Veterinary Views: When it comes to dental disease in pets, what you can’t see can hurt them

By DR. NIGEL SKINNER

Dental disease is one of the most common conditions we diagnose in pets—and one of the most overlooked by loving, attentive owners.

It’s not due to neglect; the signs can be subtle, and animals are incredibly good at carrying on through chronic discomfort.
But here’s the good news: dental disease is treatable. In fact, it’s one of the areas where veterinary care can lead to truly dramatic improvements in a pet’s health, comfort, and even personality.

It starts small—but doesn’t stay that way

Dental disease usually begins with plaque—a soft film of bacteria that coats the teeth after eating.

If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which accumulates both above and below the gum line.

This leads to inflammation (gingivitis), infection, bone loss, and eventually, tooth mobility or abscesses.

As bacteria flourish beneath the gums, the damage quietly worsens. Unlike cavities in humans, pets develop periodontal disease—affecting the structures that support the teeth.

Left untreated, this not only causes oral pain but can also allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially impacting organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver.

The trouble is, this can all be happening with little outward sign. Many pets continue eating and acting “fine,” even while enduring significant discomfort.

The only way to properly diagnose and treat dental disease

This is why professional veterinary dental care—performed under general anesthesia—is essential.

We sometimes see non-anesthetic “cleanings” advertised at grooming salons or even some clinics, but these are surface-level only.

They can make teeth look cleaner, but they don’t address disease under the gum line or assess the roots and supporting bone. Worse, they may give the impression that all is well when serious disease is actually being missed.

Veterinary dentistry done right involves a full oral exam, dental X-rays, probing for pockets, scaling above and below the gum line, polishing, and sometimes extracting diseased teeth.

Anesthesia allows us to do this safely and painlessly, while monitoring vital signs such as oxygen levels, blood pressure, and heart rate every step of the way.

It’s a controlled, gentle, and highly effective procedure.

The results speak for themselves

One of the most rewarding parts of veterinary practice is hearing what happens after dental work is done.

Pet owners often call or email days later with happy updates:

“He’s running again!”

“She’s eating better—and playing like a kitten!”

“I didn’t even realize how quiet he’d become until he perked up again.”

Especially with senior pets, it’s easy to chalk up subtle changes such as less playfulness, slower walks, more napping, as normal aging.

But after treating dental disease, many of those pets regain their spark. They feel better because they are better.

Here’s what you can do

• Brush your pet’s teeth: Even a few times a week can make a difference. Your vet can show you how.
• Book regular dental assessments: Catching problems early is key.
• Don’t skip professional cleanings: When your vet recommends a dental procedure, it’s for good reason.
• Watch for subtle signs: Dropping food, chewing on one side, or bad breath are often clues.
  Dental care may not be the most glamorous part of pet ownership—but it’s one of the most impactful.
  Keeping your pet’s mouth healthy means more comfort, more years, and more of the joy that comes from a tail wag or a purring cuddle.
  Having a happy pet is what it’s all about and good dental care can be a big part of that happiness!

— Dr. Nigel Skinner is the Founder/Owner of Shoreview Veterinary