Dental Health

When was the last time you had your pet’s teeth cleaned? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, pets who have never had a teeth cleaning have signs of dental disease by the time they are three years old. For that reason, Animal Medical Center of McAllen/Pet Doctor 911 recommends that all pets have a yearly oral examination and dental cleaning if necessary.

Dog getting teeth examined

Gum Disease in Dogs and Cats

Dogs and cats are prone to developing the same types of dental diseases and problems as humans, including gingivitis, periodontal disease, tooth decay, staining and cavities. The process of dental decay and disease starts every time your pet eats. When your pet eats, food particles get on their teeth and gums. This fuels the bacteria in your pet’s mouth, causing an acid attack on the enamel of their teeth and creating a sticky, clear substance called plaque. If the plaque is left on teeth, it hardens into tartar. When plaque and tartar are left on your pet’s teeth for an extended period of time, it can lead to gingivitis, periodontal disease, cavities and oral infections.

Signs of Dental Disease in Pets

When it comes to detecting potential oral health problems in pets, owners must be vigilant in noticing changes in behavior. This is because pets often do not act like they are in pain until the pain is severe. If you notice any of the signs below, it is important that you contact us to schedule a dental checkup, teeth cleaning and gum disease treatment.

  • Broken or Loose Teeth
  • Discomfort While Eating
  • Extremely bad Breath
  • Pussy or Bloody Drool
  • Red Gums
  • Staining on the Teeth
  • Swollen or Inflamed Gums
  • Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite

The Hazards of Untreated Periodontal Disease in Pets

Untreated periodontal disease in dogs and cats can lead to dangerous infections, like abscesses and blood infections. Advanced dental disease may also affect your pet’s heart, liver and kidneys. In order to avoid these potentially life-threatening conditions, it is important to keep your pet’s teeth clean with a combination of at-home care and regular veterinary teeth cleanings.

Pet Dental Cleanings in McAllen

Animal Medical Center of McAllen/Pet Doctor 911 recommends that all dogs and cats receive a dental checkup at least once a year for every year of their lives. Pet dental checkups include an examination of your pet’s head, neck, face, ears and mouth in order to check for signs of health problems.  Once your pet’s teeth are clean, we can give you tips and tricks to help you remove food particles and plaque at home between professional pet dental cleanings, like pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes as well as dental chews.

To learn more about our veterinary dental services and how they can protect the health of your pet, call us at (956) 683-7387 today.

McAllen Office

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Hours of Operation

Our Regular Schedule

Monday:

Appts: 7am - 5pm; Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

Tuesday:

Appts: 7am - 5pm; Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

Wednesday:

Appts: 7am - 5pm; Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

Thursday:

Appts: 7am - 5pm; Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

Friday:

Appts: 7am - 5pm; Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

Saturday:

Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

Sunday:

Walk-Ins & Emergencies: 24/7

  • "Great service every time we go. Staff is always friendly and provides information when I need it."
    Jessica G.
  • "the staff was very kind and the doctor did a fantastic job. she took care of our pet and she's doing great today. we are very appreciative of what she did. If we are in need for future care for our baby we will be back. Thank you all for what you did."
    Lewis A.
  • "This was the only vet opened at midnight when my Doberman got sick with parvo. The care and Treatment he got was excellent they are very well organized and they are also affordable I highly recommend them!"
    Ashley S.
  • "New puppy! Couldn’t get an appt at our regular vet came here instead and they were able to see him and provided excellent service. Since then, this is third visit and very satisfied each time."
    Adriana R.
  • "Took my dog. Great service and very knowledgeable."
    Rebecca C.