Every pet owner in Lakeland wants to see their dog or cat with a happy, healthy smile. Yet, dental health is often overlooked until problems like bad breath, difficulty eating, or visible tartar appear. These issues are not just cosmetic; they can signal deeper health concerns with lasting effects on your pet’s comfort and wellbeing. At Pet Care On Highland, located at 222 W Highland Dr, Lakeland, FL 33813, we understand how important it is to catch dental issues early and provide comprehensive pet dental cleaning services for the pets of Lakeland and surrounding communities. Our veterinary professionals are committed to delivering gentle, advanced dental care so your pet enjoys a healthier mouth and a happier life.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the signs of dental disease in dogs and cats, explain why regular pet dental cleaning is crucial, and outline what you can expect from our veterinary dental services, including preventive cleanings and safe extractions. We’ll also share practical tips for at-home dental care and guidance on when to schedule a dental visit with our team. If you’re looking for a dental vet near me who combines expertise with compassion, you’re in the right place. For more information about our approach, visit our page about dental cleaning services for pets to see how we can help keep your pet’s teeth sparkling clean.
Pets are great at hiding discomfort, but dental disease can quietly affect their quality of life. Recognizing the warning signs early gives you the best chance to prevent pain and more serious health issues. Symptoms of dental disease in pets include persistent bad breath, yellow or brown buildup (tartar) on teeth, red or bleeding gums, reluctance to eat, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, and visible swelling around the muzzle or jaw. Some pets might also show changes in behavior, such as irritability or withdrawal, as they struggle with oral pain.
In Lakeland’s warm, humid climate, bacteria can thrive in your pet’s mouth, which can accelerate plaque buildup and gum disease. Owners who notice any of these signs should not delay seeking veterinary dental services in Lakeland. Even if your pet’s symptoms seem mild, dental issues can escalate quickly and lead to problems beyond the mouth, affecting the heart, kidneys, or liver.
Understanding why dental disease develops can help you stay ahead of problems. Plaque forms naturally as bacteria and food particles accumulate on your pet’s teeth. Over time, this soft film hardens into tartar, which can only be removed through professional pet dental cleaning. As tartar builds up, it pushes under the gum line, causing inflammation (gingivitis) and eventually leading to periodontal disease.
Several factors increase the risk for dental disease. Smaller dog breeds and certain cats are more prone to tartar accumulation due to the shape and spacing of their teeth. Age is another factor; older pets are at higher risk because dental disease progresses over time. Diets that lack dental benefits, infrequent chewing of dental-friendly toys, and lack of regular home care all contribute. Genetics can also play a role, so even well-cared-for pets might need more frequent dental checkups.
If you’re searching for a "vet near me" who truly understands the local risks and the best approaches for pet dental care in Lakeland, Pet Care On Highland combines years of experience with advanced dental technology to keep your pet’s mouth in top condition.
When your pet comes in for a dental cleaning at our Lakeland veterinary clinic, they receive attentive, individualized care from our skilled veterinary team. Comprehensive pet dental cleaning in Lakeland involves several important steps to ensure both safety and effectiveness.
First, we perform a thorough oral examination, often using digital radiology to assess the health of teeth below the gum line. Our veterinary professionals gently clean each tooth, removing plaque and tartar with ultrasonic scaling tools designed for pets. Special attention is given to the gum line, where dental disease often begins. After scaling, each tooth is polished to smooth the surface and slow future plaque buildup.
If we discover loose, fractured, or infected teeth, our veterinarians will discuss whether veterinary dental extractions and teeth extractions are necessary. Extractions are performed under general anesthesia with comprehensive pain management, making the process as comfortable as possible for your pet. We use advanced monitoring and anesthesia protocols to ensure your pet’s safety at every step.
Many pet owners are concerned about anesthesia during dental cleanings, especially with older pets. Our team tailors every anesthetic plan to your pet’s individual needs, using pre-anesthetic bloodwork and close monitoring throughout the procedure. If you have questions about dental cleanings or extractions, our veterinary team is always happy to discuss your options and explain our approach.
Choosing professional veterinary dental services in Lakeland not only treats current problems but also prevents more serious health issues. Untreated dental disease can lead to tooth loss, abscesses, and even infections spreading to vital organs. By scheduling regular cleanings, you’re giving your pet the best chance for a long, healthy life.
While professional dental cleanings are essential, your efforts at home make a big difference in your pet’s oral health. Regular brushing is the gold standard; using a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste, aim to brush your pet’s teeth several times a week. Begin slowly, allowing your pet to get used to the sensation, and reward them for positive behavior.
Dental chews and toys designed to reduce tartar can also help, especially for pets who resist brushing. For cats and smaller dogs, consider water additives or dental diets that are formulated to promote oral health. Checking your pet’s mouth regularly for signs of trouble—like redness, swelling, or changes in breath—helps you spot problems early.
Our clinic in Lakeland supports preventive dental care for pets and offers advice tailored to your pet’s unique needs and lifestyle. If you have questions about which products are safe or effective, ask our veterinarians during your next visit. We’re here to support you at every step, whether you’re new to pet dental care or looking for advanced dental vet near me options.
If you notice persistent bad breath, refusal to eat, visible tartar, or your pet seems to be in pain, it’s time to schedule a dental exam. Even if your pet appears healthy, annual dental checkups are recommended for most adult dogs and cats. More frequent visits may be needed for seniors or breeds prone to dental disease.
Certain emergencies, such as sudden swelling, bleeding from the mouth, or broken teeth, require prompt attention. Our veterinary dental services in Lakeland are equipped to handle both routine and urgent dental needs. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major health threats.
If you are searching online for "veterinary services near me" or "pet dental cleaning near me," remember that professional dental care at Pet Care On Highland is just a call away. Our approach focuses on both immediate comfort and long-term wellness for your pet.
Your pet’s smile is more than just adorable—it’s a sign of their overall health. By investing in professional pet dental cleaning in Lakeland, you’re helping your dog or cat avoid pain, preserve their teeth, and enjoy a higher quality of life. Our team of veterinarians at Pet Care On Highland is dedicated to providing advanced, compassionate dental care, from routine cleanings to gentle extractions.
If you’ve been searching for the best vet near me or want to learn more about our dental cleaning services for pets, we invite you to schedule an appointment and let our veterinary professionals guide you. Whether your pet is due for a checkup or needs treatment for a dental concern, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Call (863) 937-7914 today to book your pet’s dental consultation or visit us at 222 W Highland Dr, Lakeland, FL 33813. Let’s keep those tails wagging and whiskers twitching with healthy smiles for years to come.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations regarding your pet’s health.
