Veterinary Dental Care in Centerton, AR

Why Pet Dental Care Is Important for Long-Term Health

Pet dental care focuses on preventing and treating oral disease before it affects your pet’s overall well-being. Plaque naturally builds up on teeth over time. If left untreated, it hardens into calculus and leads to periodontal disease, which can cause pain, infection, and tooth loss.

Dental disease does not stay confined to the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and place stress on vital organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. By prioritizing veterinary dental care in Centerton, AR, our team helps protect your pet’s comfort today and their long-term health tomorrow through proactive prevention and early intervention.

How Often Should Pets Have Dental Checkups or Cleanings?

Most dogs and cats benefit from a dental evaluation at least once a year. Some pets may need more frequent cleanings based on their age, breed, oral anatomy, and overall health history.

At Embrace Vet Care, dental checkups are often incorporated into routine wellness exams. This allows our team to monitor changes over time and recommend dental cleanings only when they are truly needed. Every dental plan is individualized to support your pet’s unique needs and lifestyle.

To support our patients’ dental health, our VIP+ monthly subscription program includes an annual cleaning for pets of all ages, helping prioritize dental care and prevent chronic calculus buildup and secondary disease.

Signs Your Dog or Cat May Have Dental Problems

Dental disease often develops quietly, which is why regular exams are so important. Common signs that your pet may be experiencing dental issues include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Visible tartar buildup on the teeth
• Dropping food or chewing on one side
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Behavioral changes such as irritability or decreased appetite

If you notice any of these symptoms, early evaluation can help prevent more advanced disease and discomfort.

Preventing Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats

Preventing dental disease requires a combination of professional care and consistent at-home support. Regular pet dental cleanings performed by a veterinary team help remove plaque and tartar that brushing alone cannot reach.

At home, prevention may include:

• Brushing your pet’s teeth with pet-safe toothpaste
• Using dental diets or approved dental chews
• Scheduling routine veterinary exams to monitor oral health

Education and collaboration are central to our philosophy. We work closely with pet owners to create realistic dental care routines that support lifelong oral health.

When to Start Dental Care for Puppies and Kittens

Dental care should begin early, often during your pet’s first wellness visits. Starting young allows pets to become comfortable with oral exams and helps owners build healthy habits before dental disease begins.

Early dental care supports:

• Healthier adult teeth and gums
• Easier acceptance of brushing routines
• Reduced risk of advanced dental disease later in life

Preventive dental care during puppyhood and kittenhood lays the foundation for long-term oral and overall wellness.

Common Dental Issues in Dogs vs Cats

Dogs and cats experience dental disease differently, which is why species-specific care is essential.

Common dental issues in dogs include:

• Periodontal disease
• Broken or worn teeth from chewing habits
• Abscessation from a tooth root infection

Common dental issues in cats include:

• Gingivitis
• Tooth resorption, which can be painful and difficult to detect without dental X-rays

Our team tailors diagnostics and treatment plans based on your pet’s species, age, and medical history to ensure accurate care.

What to Expect During a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning

Professional vet dental cleaning services are performed under anesthesia to ensure safety, comfort, and thorough treatment. During a dental cleaning at Embrace Vet Care, your pet may receive:

• A pre-anesthetic exam and diagnostic screening
• Anesthesia for a safe and pain-free procedure
• Cleaning above and below the gum line
• Dental X-rays to assess the full tooth ⅔ of which lives under the gum line
• Tooth extractions or additional treatments if needed

Throughout the process, we prioritize gentle handling and low-stress protocols to support your pet’s physical and emotional comfort.

Why Choose Embrace Vet Care for Pet Dental Care in Centerton, AR

Choosing the right veterinary dental clinic matters. At Embrace Vet Care, dental care is guided by compassion, collaboration, and a whole-body wellness philosophy.

Pet owners choose us for:

• A whole-body approach that looks beyond symptoms
• Low-stress, gentle handling techniques
• Personalized treatment plans tailored to each pet
• Clear communication and client education
• Leadership from Dr. Sandy Jernigan, DVM, with a focus on trust and long-term health

Our goal is to support both pets and their families with thoughtful, individualized veterinary care.