No Pain, Know Health

Denal care for dogs and cats.

Bad breath is just a small piece of your pet’s dental health. But don’t worry — here at Marcy Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to help you take care of your pet’s total health… teeth included! Dental Disease Dental disease doesn’t affect just your pet’s mouth though. When dental disease is left untreated, it can contribute to major organ diseases. Heart disease and kidney disease are two common consequences of poor dental pet care. This happens when your pet’s gums get inflamed and infected, bacteria can migrate into the bloodstream and spread to other parts of the body.

Warning Signs of Dental Disease

Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions in pets — studies show that at least 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease by the time they’re 3 years old. However, as with many medical conditions — pets tend to hide their discomfort until the pain becomes too much. When in doubt, an evaluation by your veterinarian can help determine if there’s a dental problem.

  • Chewing on one side of the mouth
  • Swollen or bleeding gums
  • Reluctance to eat hard food

  • A foul mouth odor
  • Facial swelling
  • Broken, chipped, or discolored teeth

  • Chewing on one side of the mouth
  • Swollen or bleeding gums
  • Reluctance to eat hard food
  • A foul mouth odor
  • Facial swelling
  • Broken, chipped, or discolored teeth

Preventative Dental Care

Dental disease in cats and dogs is extremely common but when left untreated, can lead to dangerous health conditions. While a dental health exam is included as part of your pet’s regular exam, the best pet dental care starts at home. Prevention is always the best medicine. With these tips below you can prevent a routine dental cleaning from becoming an oral surgery (where teeth need to be removed) for severe dental disease.

Toothpastes & Toothbrushes

Using an enzymatic toothpaste along with a pet friendly toothbrush or finger brush can help reduce bad breath and stop plaque buildup. We recommend that you brush your pet’s teeth daily if they allow. This is easiest when introduced at a young age. We carry a variety in clinic for your convenience.

Drinking Water Additives

Animals should always have access to free choice water. If there is concern with dental health, your veterinarian can guide you to our recommended dental water additives. These products are great for  maintaining good oral health and will freshen your pet’s breath.

Dental Chews

Treating our pets to a special snack can be fun, but not all treats are the same. When dental health is a concern, choosing treats and chews created with enzymes that help loosen tartar and prevent plaque are a great option. These neat treats are great for after brushing or on days when brushing isn’t possible. You don’t have to tell you pet that it’s healthy!

Dental Support Pet Food

For some patients, it is recommended to feed specially formulated food designed to support your pet’s dental health by reducing plaque, stains, and tartar buildup. These foods are veterinary prescribed.

Preparing For A Dental Cleaning

Dental exams and cleanings become a regular part of your pet’s annual checkups as he or she grows older. Dental cleanings are usually done under anesthesia and can be dropped off the same day. You should plan to drop off and pick up your cat or dog in the morning and late afternoon. This approach allows us to thoroughly clean your pet’s teeth while also allowing for some wiggle room in case of major animal emergencies with other patients. We will monitor your pet as they awaken from anesthesia to ensure that they have recovered properly.

Before A Dental Cleaning

We recommend pre-anesthetic blood work because our dental cleanings are performed under anesthesia. It will examine how your pet's liver, kidneys, and blood sugar levels are functioning, as well as whether or not anesthesia is safe for your pet.

Our dental cleanings are typically same day discharge unless your pet requires a more serious dental procedure than a cleaning. It is critical that your pet has nothing to eat or drink after midnight the day before the procedure.

For your pets comfort, we recommend bringing something that smells like home to leave with your pet, such as a blanket or a shirt you slept in overnight. +

During Dental Cleaning

Ultrasonic scaling is used in our dental cleanings. Ultrasonic scaling involves the application of high frequency sound waves to the teeth, which removes plaque and tartar buildup. Following that, our dental technicians will use a rotational polisher to clean and shine your cat or dog's teeth.

If a tooth requires surgical extraction, it is usually discovered during the initial dental exam. You have the option to approve additional measures at this time if they are required. This reduces the likelihood of needless anesthesia and additional procedures.

We will always try to contact the pet parent if your cat or dog has an issue during the dental cleaning. If we find that your pet requires a tooth extraction during their dental cleaning, we will call you for approval to remove the tooth. +

Dental Discharge

Your pet will be discharged with care instructions. Depending on how much work is done during the dental cleaning, your pet may be sent home with a restricted diet and water intake for the night. Don't worry – each patient is unique, and we'll make sure you have all the information you need before you bring your cat or dog home.

Make sure to follow your take home care instructions & call us at 315-570-6760 if you have any concerns. +

Scheduling Dental Care

To start, a veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s mouth, as well as their overall health. Then, if recommended, we’ll schedule their procedure for you.

To get started, call us at 315-570-6760. Let us help keep your companion in good health — and, to keep cuddles, stinky breath free!

Scheduling Dental Care

To start, a veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s mouth, as well as their overall health. Then, if recommended, we’ll schedule their procedure for you.

To get started, call us at 315-570-6760. Let us help keep your companion in good health — and, to keep cuddles, stinky breath free!