When we think about starting a new year, many of us make resolutions focused on better health—eating smarter, exercising more, and finally scheduling those overdue checkups. While it’s easy to focus on our own goals, January is also an excellent time to turn our attention to the health of our pets, especially when it comes to dental care.
Dental disease is one of the most common—and most overlooked—medical conditions affecting dogs and cats. In fact, studies show that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by the age of three. Despite how common it is, many pets go years with untreated oral issues because problems aren’t always obvious at home.
At Applebrook Animal Hospital, we consider dental health an essential part of preventive care. To help pets start the year healthier and more comfortable, we are offering a dental cleaning promotion for all pets that schedule their procedure in January and February. This makes now an ideal time to learn why dental care matters, how to recognize problems, and what professional dental cleanings really involve.
Why Dental Health Matters More Than You Think
Dental disease isn’t just about bad breath or dirty teeth. It’s a progressive condition that can significantly affect your pet’s comfort, quality of life, and overall health.
It Usually Starts Quietly
Most dental disease begins as plaque, a soft film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar, which pushes bacteria beneath the gumline. Over time, this leads to:
Gingivitis (inflamed gums)
Periodontal disease
Tooth root infection
Tooth loss
Pets are very good at hiding pain, so dental disease can advance for years before it becomes obvious.
Dental Disease Can Affect the Whole Body
The mouth is not separate from the rest of the body. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and may contribute to problems with the:
Heart
Kidneys
Liver
Immune system
This is especially concerning for senior pets, pets with chronic conditions, and cats, who often show very subtle signs of discomfort.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Disease
Some pet owners believe they would “know” if their pet had dental pain—but many signs are easy to miss or mistakenly attributed to aging or personality changes.
Common signs include:
Bad breath (not “normal dog breath”)
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
Dropping food or chewing on one side
Decreased appetite or picky eating
Pawing at the mouth or face
Facial swelling
Lethargy or behavior changes
In cats, signs may be especially subtle, such as:
Hiding more than usual
Decreased grooming
Preference for soft food
Irritability or withdrawal
If any of these sound familiar, a dental evaluation is strongly recommended.
Why Professional Dental Cleanings Are Essential
While dental chews, water additives, and brushing can all support oral health, they cannot replace a professional veterinary dental cleaning.
What a Veterinary Dental Cleaning Includes
A comprehensive dental cleaning performed at Applebrook Animal Hospital involves much more than cleaning visible teeth:
General anesthesia for safety and comfort
Thorough scaling above and below the gumline
Polishing to smooth enamel and reduce future plaque buildup
Complete oral examination
Dental radiographs (X-rays) to evaluate tooth roots and jawbone
Treatment recommendations, including extractions if needed
Dental X-rays are especially important because over half of a tooth’s structure lies below the gumline. Many painful problems are invisible without imaging.
Addressing Common Anesthesia Concerns
We understand that anesthesia can be a concern for pet owners, particularly for older pets. Modern veterinary anesthesia is very safe, and every dental patient is carefully evaluated beforehand with:
Physical examination
Pre-anesthetic bloodwork
Individualized anesthetic plans
Continuous monitoring during the procedure
For many pets—especially seniors—treating dental disease actually improves energy levels, appetite, and overall well-being.
Why January Is an Ideal Time for Dental Care
There are several reasons why the beginning of the year is an especially good time to schedule a dental cleaning.
A Fresh Start for Health
January naturally aligns with preventive care goals. Addressing dental disease early in the year sets your pet up for improved comfort and better health for the months ahead.
Quieter Schedules
After the busy holiday season, many families find January and February easier to plan around. This can make scheduling procedures—and post-procedure rest—more manageable.
Take Advantage of Our Dental Promotion
To encourage pet owners to prioritize oral health, Applebrook Animal Hospital is offering a dental cleaning promotion for pets scheduled in January and February. This limited-time offer makes it easier to address dental disease before it progresses and often helps pet owners move forward sooner rather than postponing care.
Dental Care for Dogs vs. Cats: What’s Different?
Although dental disease affects both species, dogs and cats tend to develop different oral health problems.
Dogs
Dogs commonly experience:
Tartar buildup
Periodontal disease
Tooth fractures from chewing hard objects
Abscessed teeth
Small-breed dogs are particularly prone to severe dental disease due to crowding of teeth.
Cats
Cats often suffer from:
Gingivitis and stomatitis
Tooth resorption (a painful condition unique to cats)
Severe inflammation with minimal visible tartar
Because cats hide pain so well, dental disease in cats often goes untreated longer—making regular dental evaluations especially important.
How to Support Your Pet’s Dental Health at Home
Professional cleanings are the foundation of good oral health, but home care plays a valuable supporting role. You should always start at home dental care with a “clean slate” so unless your pet is very young, it is a good idea to have a dental assessment and cleaing first.
Helpful at-home strategies include:
Brushing your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste
Feeding approved dental diets
Using veterinarian-recommended dental chews or treats
Scheduling regular wellness exams to monitor oral health
Your veterinary team can recommend a home-care plan that fits your pet’s age, temperament, and dental status.
Making Dental Care a Routine Part of Preventive Health
Dental disease does not improve on its own. Without treatment, it continues to progress, causing pain, infection, and potential complications throughout the body. The good news is that professional dental care can dramatically improve comfort and quality of life, even for pets with advanced disease.
By addressing dental health early—and maintaining it over time—you help ensure your pet stays happier, healthier, and more comfortable well into the future.
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Cleaning Today
January is a perfect time to invest in your pet’s long-term health. With our January–February dental cleaning promotion, there’s no better opportunity to give your dog or cat a healthier mouth and a brighter start to the year.
If you have questions about dental cleanings, anesthesia, or whether your pet may benefit from a dental procedure, the team at Applebrook Animal Hospital is here to help. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation or reserve your pet’s dental appointment while our promotion is available.