Cat & Dog Teeth Cleanings & Dental Care in Harrisonburg, VA

Good dental health isn’t just about fresh breath—it’s a key part of your pet’s overall well-being. Dental disease is one of the most common—yet most overlooked—health issues in pets, leading to pain, infections, and even organ damage if left untreated. Regular dental care helps prevent these problems, keeping your pet comfortable, happy, and full of energy.

At Ashby Animal Clinic, we provide thorough oral exams, professional dog and cat teeth cleanings, and expert guidance on at-home dental care to keep your pet’s teeth in top shape.

Schedule a professional teeth cleaning today and give your pet the gift of a healthier, pain-free smile!

Dog With A Dental Chew

Why Preventive Dental Care Is So Important for Your Pet

Just like people, pets can suffer from plaque buildup, gum disease, and painful infections if their teeth aren’t properly cared for. In fact, up to 90% of all cats and dogs develop some form of dental disease by age three. Left untreated, bacteria from dental infections can enter the bloodstream, leading to serious health issues like heart, liver, and kidney disease.

The good news? Regular dental care can prevent these problems and keep your pet healthier, happier, and more comfortable for years to come. If your pet has bad breath, red or swollen gums, difficulty chewing, or is reluctant to eat, it’s time for a dental checkup.

What Happens During a Professional Dog and Cat Teeth Cleaning?

A professional dog and cat teeth cleaning is the most effective way to remove sticky plaque, bacterial overgrowth, and hardened tartar that can’t be reached or eradicated with brushing alone. Here’s what you can expect when you schedule your four-legged friend’s dental cleaning:

Comprehensive Dental Exam

We evaluate your pet’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health to check for signs of disease, fractures, or infection.

Full Mouth Digital
X-Rays

Many dental issues hide below the gumline, where about 60% of the tooth structure lurks, but X-rays help us detect hidden infections, abscesses, and bone loss.

Ultrasonic Scaling & Polishing

We carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup above and below the gumline, followed by polishing to smooth the enamel and reduce future plaque buildup.

Extractions & Treatment (if needed)

If a tooth is severely damaged or infected, we may recommend extraction to prevent further pain and infection.

Your pet will be under safe, monitored anesthesia throughout the procedure to ensure their comfort and allow for a thorough, pain-free cleaning. General anesthesia is vital for guaranteeing that your pet feels no anxiety or discomfort during their cleaning, while allowing our team to fully examine and care for their oral health.

Creating an At-Home Dental Care Routine for Your Pet

Professional teeth cleanings are essential, but daily at-home dental care plays a huge role in maintaining your pet’s oral health. Here’s how you can help ward off periodontal disease and lengthen the time between professional cleanings:

  • Brush Their Teeth: Daily brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste is the gold standard for preventing plaque buildup.
  • Use Dental Chews & Water Additives: Specially designed treats and water additives can help reduce tartar and freshen breath.
  • Schedule Regular Checkups: Even with the best at-home care, pets need routine dental exams to catch potential issues early.

Your pet’s dental health is too important to ignore! Schedule a professional dog and cat teeth cleaning today and let’s keep those tails wagging and whiskers happy.