Professional Pet Dental Cleaning in Jacksonville, FL

Good dental hygiene is crucial for your pet’s overall health, and regular cleanings are the best way to keep your pet’s mouth healthy and free from pain. Persistent bad breath is often an early sign of dental issues that could be affecting your pet’s well-being. At Merrill Animal Clinic in Jacksonville, FL, we provide comprehensive dental cleanings that address problems both above and below the gum line, protecting your pet from more serious health risks linked to poor oral care.

While home dental care can be a helpful start, many pets dislike having their mouths handled, especially for tasks like brushing. Cats, in particular, may become stressed or resistant, making home care challenging. Regular cleanings at our clinic help ensure your pet’s mouth is thoroughly cleaned, reducing the likelihood of serious dental disease and its related risks, such as issues with the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs.

As pet owners know, animals often hide their pain, making it difficult to recognize dental discomfort. Behavioral changes, such as irritability, reluctance to be touched around the face, or reduced appetite, can sometimes be linked to dental issues. Keep an eye out for other physical signs, including:

• Swollen or red gums
• Bleeding gums
• Oral swelling or abscesses
• Unusual chewing behavior
• Loose, missing, or discolored teeth
• Persistent bad breath
• Excessive drooling
• Weight loss

If you notice any of these signs, contact us right away. Early intervention is key to preventing further dental complications.

Anesthesia for Safe, Stress-Free Dental Care

We use anesthesia for all dental procedures to ensure safety and precision. Though anesthesia always carries some risk, it allows us to perform thorough cleanings and other procedures safely, without causing stress or discomfort to your pet. Dental work often requires access below the gum line, where movement can be dangerous, and anesthesia ensures both your pet and our team are protected.

With advancements in anesthetic options, most pets are able to return home on the same day as their procedure. While they may be a bit groggy initially, they usually return to normal behavior by the following day.

Comprehensive Dental Services for Pets

At Merrill Animal Clinic, we offer a wide range of dental treatments to keep your pet’s mouth healthy, including:

Hygiene and Preventive Care:

• Plaque and tartar removal above and below the gum line
• Polishing and scaling
• X-rays to detect underlying issues
• Thorough cleaning to prevent future buildup

Oral Health Treatments:

• Root canals and endodontic care
• Tooth restoration and alignment
• Treatment for periodontal disease and infections

Surgical and Specialized Procedures:

• Tooth extractions
• Abscess and fracture repairs
• Treatment for oral tumors, cysts, or cleft palates

Help protect your pet’s smile and overall health with professional dental care from Merrill Animal Clinic. Schedule a dental cleaning today by calling us at (904) 744-7206. Let us partner with you to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy and strong!