Cat & Dog Teeth Cleaning in Virginia Beach, VA

Your pet’s dental health is directly linked to their overall well-being—yet, it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of pet care. At Atlantic Veterinary Center, we provide comprehensive cat and dog dental care, from professional cleanings to at-home dental guidance, to keep your pet’s teeth and gums in top shape.

Preserve your pet’s smile and oral comfort with regular dental care. Schedule a dental exam or teeth cleaning today!

Request an Appointment

Or give us a call at (757) 689-5001!

Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Disease

Dental disease doesn’t just cause bad breath—it can be painful, lead to tooth loss, and even affect your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys. Since pets instinctively hide pain, it’s important to watch for early warning signs of dental problems, including:

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Yellow or brown tartar buildup, particularly along the gums

  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

  • Refusing hard food, treats, or toys

  • Dropping food while eating

  • Chewing on one side of the mouth

  • Pawing at the mouth or face

  • Loose or missing teeth

  • Persistent bad breath

  • Yellow or brown tartar buildup, particularly along the gums

  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums

  • Refusing hard food, treats, or toys

  • Dropping food while eating

  • Chewing on one side of the mouth

  • Pawing at the mouth or face

  • Loose or missing teeth

veterinarian checking a dogs teeth

What Happens During a Professional Dog & Cat Teeth Cleaning?

Just like people visit their dentist twice a year, pets also need regular professional cleanings to prevent plaque and tartar buildup, gum disease, and further complications. Our comprehensive dental cleanings include:

Pre-Dental Exam & Bloodwork

We assess your pet’s overall health before the procedure.

Customized, Monitored Anesthesia

We carefully formulate an anesthetic protocol designed for your pet’s individual needs.

Full-Mouth Digital X-Rays

We take full-mouth X-rays to help detect hidden problems beneath the gumline, where up to 60% of the tooth structure lies.

Scaling & Polishing

Using hand tools and an ultrasonic scaler, we remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria above and below the gumline.

Gum & Tooth Evaluation

We check for loose teeth, fractures, signs of infection, and other periodontal problems.

Extractions (if necessary)

If a tooth is severely damaged or infected, we may recommend extraction for your pet’s comfort.

At-Home Dental Care for Your Pet

While professional cleanings are essential, daily at-home dental care helps maintain your pet’s oral health between visits. Here’s how you can help:

  • Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

    Daily brushing is the gold standard for preventing plaque buildup. Use a pet-friendly toothbrush and fluoride-free toothpaste and slowly introduce toothbrushing to your four-legged friend.

  • Offer Dental Chews & Toys

    Appropriate chews, treats, and toys help remove plaque while keeping your pet entertained. Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of approval when choosing proven products.

  • Choose Dental-Friendly Diets

    Some prescription and over-the-counter diets are designed to reduce tartar through unique kibble shapes and beneficial ingredients.

  • Use Dental Water Additives

    With just a splash a day in your pet’s water bowl, these easy-to-use solutions help fight bacteria and freshen breath.

  • Schedule Regular Check-ups

    Even with great at-home care, professional cleanings are still necessary! Pets typically require annual dental cleanings, but some may need more frequent attention.

Protect Your Pet’s Smile

Dental disease is painful, but it’s also completely preventable with the right care. Whether your pet is due for a cleaning or you’re noticing signs of dental disease, our team is here to help. Give your pet a sparkling-clean, pain-free smile—schedule an oral exam or teeth cleaning today!

Request an Appointment

Or give us a call at (757) 689-5001!