Professional dental cleanings, X-rays, and oral surgery for dogs, cats, and exotic pets in Overland Park and the greater Kansas City area.
Dental disease is one of the most common—and most preventable—health problems we see in dogs and cats. By age three, most pets already have some degree of periodontal disease, which can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and even damage to the heart, liver, and kidneys. The tricky part is that pets are remarkably good at hiding oral pain, so many owners don't realize there's a problem until it's advanced.
At College Boulevard Animal Hospital, dental care is one of our clinical specialties. Both Dr. Pippin and Dr. Baird have a strong interest in veterinary dentistry and perform dental procedures regularly. We have the training, the equipment, and the experience to keep your pet's mouth healthy—and to catch problems early, before they become painful or expensive.
A thorough cleaning under general anesthesia is the only way to properly clean below the gumline where periodontal disease causes its worst damage. We scale and polish every tooth, then examine the entire mouth for signs of disease. Anesthesia allows us to work safely and comfortably, and we monitor your pet's vitals continuously throughout the procedure.
Just like in human dentistry, what's happening below the gumline matters as much as what's visible. Our in-house dental X-ray system lets us see tooth roots, jawbone, and hidden problems like abscesses, root resorption, and fractures that can't be detected by visual exam alone.
When a tooth is too damaged or diseased to save, extraction is the kindest option. We perform both simple and surgical extractions, always with appropriate pain management, including nerve blocks, opioids, and nonsteroidal medications. Pets recover remarkably well after extractions—most owners tell us their pet seems happier and more comfortable within just a few days, because the source of chronic pain is finally gone.
Every wellness exam includes a visual check of your pet's teeth and gums. We look for tartar buildup, gingivitis, fractured teeth, oral masses, and other signs that indicate when a professional cleaning is needed. We'll always talk you through what we find and recommend a plan based on your pet's individual needs.
Dental disease doesn't stay in the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs, including the heart, liver, and kidneys. Chronic dental infections are also a significant source of ongoing pain that affects your pet's appetite, energy level, and quality of life—even if they don't show any signs of discomfort.
Regular professional cleanings, combined with home care when possible, can prevent most dental disease before it starts. And when problems do develop, catching them early means simpler treatment, lower cost, and a much better outcome for your pet.
Want to learn more? Read our blog post: Why Your Pet's Dental Health Is So Important
If you notice any of the following, it's time to have your pet's mouth evaluated: bad breath that doesn't go away, red or swollen gums, yellow or brown buildup on the teeth, drooling more than usual, difficulty eating or only chewing on one side, pawing at the mouth, loose or missing teeth, or bleeding from the mouth. Some pets show none of these signs at all and still have significant dental disease, which is why regular professional exams are so important.
Don't wait for symptoms to become obvious. If it's been more than a year since your pet's last dental evaluation, give us a call.
We're here to help keep your pet's mouth healthy. Contact us to schedule a dental exam or cleaning.