Dental Care
Healthy Teeth and Gums
Professional cleanings under anesthesia that clear away tartar and help prevent gingivitis.
Teeth Cleaning in Cedar Springs, MI
A healthy mouth is a big part of a healthy pet. At Cedar Animal Hospital, we help families from Cedar Springs and all over West Michigan keep their pets’ teeth and gums in good shape with professional dental cleanings and practical advice for home care.
Understanding Teeth Cleaning and Gingivitis
Just like in people, plaque builds up on your pet’s teeth every day. Left alone, it hardens into tartar and creeps below the gum line, where it irritates the gums and causes gingivitis. Over time, that inflammation can progress to periodontal disease, which damages the tissue and bone that hold teeth in place and can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Dental disease is one of the most common problems we see in dogs and cats.
A professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line, where a toothbrush can’t reach. Because pets won’t sit still for this kind of work, cleanings are done under anesthesia, which lets our team clean every surface thoroughly and examine each tooth safely. We also take digital dental radiographs to see the roots and jawbone beneath the gums, so problems hiding out of sight don’t go unnoticed.
What to Expect During Your Pet’s Teeth Cleaning
We know the idea of anesthesia can feel worrying, so we walk you through every step and keep you updated during your pet’s day with us.
1. Pre-Anesthetic Exam and Bloodwork
Your veterinarian examines your pet and reviews their health history. We usually recommend bloodwork from our in-house laboratory to make sure your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia and to tailor the plan to their needs.
2. Anesthesia and Monitoring
On the day of the cleaning, your pet is placed under general anesthesia. A dedicated team member monitors vital signs throughout the procedure, and your pet is kept warm and comfortable.
3. Cleaning, Charting, and Radiographs
We scale away plaque and tartar above and below the gum line, then polish the teeth to smooth the surface and slow new plaque buildup. Each tooth is checked and charted, and digital dental radiographs let us look at roots and bone. If we find a problem such as a broken or infected tooth, we’ll contact you to discuss treatment.
4. Recovery and Going Home
Your pet wakes up under close watch and usually goes home the same day. We’ll review what we found, share any images, and give you tips for brushing and home care.
Why Teeth Cleaning Matters for Your Pet
Your pet’s dental health is closely linked to their overall health. Regular cleanings protect more than just their smile.
Stopping Gingivitis Early
Gingivitis can often be reversed when it’s caught early. Cleaning away plaque and tartar gives the gums a chance to heal before lasting damage sets in.
Comfort and Quality of Life
Pets are very good at hiding mouth pain. Many owners notice their pet eats and plays more happily after a dental problem is treated.
Seeing Below the Gum Line
Much of dental disease is hidden. Digital dental radiographs let us find problems with roots and bone that can’t be seen during an awake exam.
Signs Your Pet May Need a Teeth Cleaning
Your pet’s teeth and gums are checked at every regular exam, but have them looked at sooner if you notice:
- Bad breath
- Teeth that are discolored or covered in tartar
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Broken or loose teeth
- Drooling, dropping food, or chewing on one side
- Reduced appetite or pawing at the mouth
Keeping Teeth Clean at Home
Brushing is the single most effective thing you can do to protect your pet’s teeth between professional cleanings. Daily brushing is ideal, but even brushing several times a week makes a real difference. Our team is happy to show you how to get started and suggest products that suit your pet. As pets age, routine cleanings under anesthesia become an even more important part of their care.
Practice Highlights
- Digital Dental Radiography: Detailed images of roots and jawbone, saved to compare over time
- Full In-House Laboratory: Pre-anesthetic bloodwork with fast results
- AAHA-Accredited: Serving Cedar Springs and West Michigan since 1993
- Multiple Surgical Suites: Space and equipment for dental procedures and surgery
- Flexible Payment Options: Cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay
Schedule Your Pet's Teeth Cleaning Today
A cleaner mouth can mean a happier, more comfortable pet. Call Cedar Animal Hospital at (616) 696-1212 to book a dental exam or cleaning, or visit us at 3705 Gentle Way, Cedar Springs, MI 49319, across the street from Meijer, behind Aldi.
Teeth Cleaning: Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my pet need anesthesia for a teeth cleaning?
A thorough cleaning means scaling below the gum line, examining every tooth, and taking dental radiographs. Pets can’t hold still for that, and doing it awake would be stressful and incomplete. Anesthesia lets us work safely and gently while your pet feels nothing.
How often should my pet have their teeth cleaned?
It varies with age, breed, and home care. Some pets need a cleaning every year, while others can go longer. We check your pet’s teeth at every exam and will recommend a schedule that fits. To book a dental exam, call (616) 696-1212.
What is gingivitis, and can it be reversed?
Gingivitis is inflammation of the gums caused by plaque and tartar. In its early stages it can often be reversed with a professional cleaning and good home care. If it isn’t treated, it can progress to periodontal disease, which causes permanent damage.
Will my pet go home the same day?
Most pets go home the same day after a teeth cleaning. We’ll let you know when your pet is awake and ready, and we’ll go over what we found and how to care for them at home.
How much does a pet teeth cleaning cost?
Cost depends on your pet’s size, health, bloodwork, and whether any additional treatment is needed once we can examine every tooth. Please call for an estimate at (616) 696-1212. We accept cash, check, major credit cards, CareCredit, and Scratchpay.
