Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in pets — and most owners don’t realize it’s there until it becomes painful. Bad breath, difficulty eating, and behavior changes are often signs of infection below the gumline, not just “normal dog or cat breath.”
At Memorial Veterinary Hospital, our dental care focuses on relieving discomfort, preventing tooth loss, and protecting your pet’s overall health. With two locations in Throop and Dickson City, we make safe, thorough dental treatment accessible and stress-free for both you and your pet.
By age three, most dogs and cats already show signs of periodontal disease. Because pets instinctively hide pain, many continue eating and acting normally while infection progresses.
Untreated dental disease can lead to:
Oral infections don’t stay in the mouth. Bacteria can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys, which is why professional dental care is a critical part of preventive medicine — not just a cosmetic cleaning.
Ultrasonic scaling removes tartar while dental radiographs allow us to detect hidden infections, root disease, and bone loss.
If a tooth is damaged or infected, removing it is often the kindest option. Our team performs extractions with careful surgical technique and complete pain management to ensure your pet stays as comfortable as possible, during and after the procedure.
We’ll help you choose brushing methods, dental chews, and preventive products that are safe and realistic for your pet and your routine.
Most pets benefit from annual dental cleanings, though some may need more frequent care depending on their age, breed, and oral health.
Yes. Anesthesia allows us to clean below the gumline and take X-rays safely and thoroughly — something that can’t be done while your pet is awake.
Bad breath, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating, drooling, or pawing at the mouth are all signs your pet may need a dental exam.
Absolutely. Daily brushing is the best way to prevent tartar buildup. We can show you how to start and recommend safe, effective products.
Yes. Bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs, including the heart and kidneys, making oral care essential for long-term health.
