Veterinary Dentistry in Lancaster, NY
Veterinary dentistry at Trinity Veterinary Hospital provides comprehensive oral care for dogs and cats in Lancaster, NY, including professional dental cleanings, digital dental X-rays, and extractions when needed. As a trusted animal dental clinic, we focus on comfort, safety, and clear communication to help prevent pain, infection, and long-term health complications linked to dental disease.
What Veterinary Dentistry Involves
Veterinary dental care includes a careful exam of your pet’s mouth, a professional teeth cleaning, and dental X-rays to check the teeth and gums below the surface. Since many dental problems happen under the gumline, where they can’t be seen, X-rays are an important part of every dental cleaning to find hidden disease, broken tooth roots, or infection.
Dental procedures are done under general anesthesia, so your pet stays comfortable while their teeth are thoroughly cleaned and properly evaluated. If needed, tooth extractions or other oral treatments may be recommended to relieve discomfort and help restore your pet’s oral health.
Why Dental Care Matters for Pets
Dental disease is one of the most common — and often overlooked — health issues in dogs and cats. Tartar buildup and gum inflammation can lead to tooth loss, chronic pain, and bacterial infection that may affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Routine veterinary dentistry helps reduce oral pain, improve appetite and comfort, and support overall health. Regular dental cleanings and timely treatment can prevent advanced disease and reduce the need for more extensive procedures later.
FAQs About Veterinary Dentistry
How often does my pet need a dental cleaning?
All pets (cats, dogs, and small mammals) need an oral health assessment once per year. Dental cleaning recommendations are planned and based on that. Depending on the size, breed, and species of the pet, many end up benefiting from annual dental care (such as cleanings or trimming).
Why are dental X-rays required for cleanings?
Dental disease often exists below the gumline, where it can’t be seen during a visual exam. Full-mouth dental X-rays allow veterinarians to identify hidden infection, damaged roots, or bone loss and ensure appropriate treatment.
Is anesthesia necessary for pet dental care?
Yes. Anesthesia is required to safely perform thorough cleanings, dental X-rays, and any needed extractions.
What signs might indicate my pet needs dental care?
If your pet is experiencing the following, contact us to confirm if your pet might need dental care:
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Difficulty chewing
- Pawing at the mouth
- Red or bleeding gums
- Decreased appetite
These symptoms can all indicate dental disease. Even without obvious signs, routine exams are important.
Does veterinary dentistry include oral surgery?
Veterinary dentistry may include oral surgical procedures such as extractions when diseased or damaged teeth cannot be saved. Your veterinarian will discuss findings and options before proceeding.
What is involved in a veterinary dental cleaning?
A pet dental cleaning is done under general anesthesia and includes a full exam of your pet's mouth, a professional teeth cleaning, and dental X-rays to look at the teeth and gums below the surface, to help us find hidden disease, broken roots, or infection. Extractions or other oral treatments may be recommended to relieve discomfort and restore your pet's oral health.
Why are dental cleanings important for my pet?
Infection, disease, or broken tooth roots can occur below the gumline. During a dental cleaning, X-rays are taken of your pet's mouth to give us insight into any issues that may be hidden during a wellness exam. If found, these issues can then be addressed and treated, helping to relieve your pet's discomfort and even restore their oral health.
What to Expect During Your Pet’s Dental Visit
Before a dental procedure, your pet will receive a pre-procedure evaluation to ensure they’re a good candidate for sedation. On the day of treatment, we perform a complete oral exam, dental cleaning, and full-mouth X-rays, followed by any recommended treatments.
Aftercare instructions are provided so you know what to expect during recovery and how to support healing at home.
A Thoughtful Approach to Oral Health
Our veterinarians at Trinity Veterinary Hospital approach dental care with precision and transparency. We believe pet owners should understand what’s happening beneath the surface and why specific treatments are recommended. This allows families to make informed decisions while ensuring pets receive comfortable, effective care.
Explore More Veterinary Services:
Pet Wellness Care
Pet Diagnostics
Pet Soft Tissue Surgery
Pet Pain Management
