The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Wellness in Pets

Fresh breath is great, but good dental care goes way beyond that. Your pet’s oral health is directly tied to their overall wellbeing—from preventing infection to protecting their heart and kidneys. At Partners Veterinary Hospital West Loop, we take dental care seriously—because it’s not just about clean teeth. It’s about keeping your pet healthy for the long haul.

Why Dental Health Matters

Dental disease (periodontal disease) is one of the most common conditions we see in both dogs and cats—and it often starts silently. Plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth allow bacteria to slip below the gum line, leading to inflammation, pain, and infection.

Left untreated, this bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to major organs like the:

• Heart
  
• Liver
  
• Kidneys
  

And yes, it can absolutely impact your pet’s quality of life. Chronic dental pain may not always be obvious, but it can lead to decreased appetite, irritability, and even behavior changes.

Signs Your Pet Might Have Dental Disease

Keep an eye out for:

• Bad breath (halitosis)
  
• Red or swollen gums
  
• Brown or yellow tartar on teeth
  
• Drooling or dropping food
  
• Pawing at the mouth
  
• Reluctance to chew or play with toys
  

These symptoms are signs your pet needs a dental exam—and possibly professional treatment.

What We Can Do

At Partners Vet West Loop, we offer comprehensive dental care that includes:

• Oral exams during every wellness visit
  
• Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia
  
• Dental X-rays to evaluate the health of teeth below the gum line
  
• Extractions if needed to relieve pain and stop infection
  

We make dental procedures as safe and stress-free as possible. And we’ll walk you through everything before and after your pet’s procedure, so you feel confident and informed.

Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy at Home

Here are some ways to support your pet’s dental health between visits:

• Brush their teeth (daily is ideal, but even a few times a week helps!)
  
• Offer dental chews or vet-approved treats
  
• Try dental diets designed to reduce plaque and tartar
  
• Schedule regular checkups so we can monitor for early signs of trouble
  

Dental care is preventive care. It’s one of the simplest ways to protect your pet’s long-term health and comfort—and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Book an Appointment today!