If you’re a pet owner in Englewood, Dayton, or the surrounding Miami Valley area, here’s something worth knowing: 80% of dogs and cats develop dental disease by age 3. That means most pets are dealing with hidden mouth problems — and many owners don’t even realize it.

At Happy Paws & Claws Veterinary Clinic in Englewood, Ohio, we’re here to help. Our team, led by Dr. Angela Melton, provides gentle, thorough pet dental care so your dog or cat can stay healthy, comfortable, and pain-free.

Why Pet Dental Care Matters More Than You Think

Dental disease in pets isn’t just about bad breath. When plaque and tartar build up, bacteria can creep below the gumline and cause infections, tooth loss, and serious pain — even if your pet isn’t showing obvious signs. Left untreated, that bacteria can spread to the heart, kidneys, and liver.

Whether you have a dog, cat, or small mammal, routine veterinary dental checkups are one of the best things you can do for their long-term health.

What to Expect During a Pet Dental Cleaning in Englewood

We know the idea of a dental procedure can feel a little nerve-wracking, so here’s exactly what happens — no surprises.

Your pet is placed under safe general anesthesia so we can do a complete, thorough cleaning. This lets us carefully examine and treat every surface, including the areas below the gumline where problems like to hide.

Our veterinary dental cleaning includes:

• Digital dental X-rays — We get a detailed look at tooth roots and jawbone to catch problems you’d never spot from the outside.
• Ultrasonic and hand scaling — We carefully remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
• Polishing — Smoothing the enamel makes it harder for buildup to come back.
• Tooth extractions (only when needed) — If a tooth is badly damaged or infected, removing it can actually help your pet feel much better.

Signs Your Dog or Cat May Need a Dental Exam

Pets are experts at hiding pain. Watch for these common warning signs and contact our Englewood veterinary clinic if you notice any of them:

• Bad breath that’s getting worse
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Difficulty chewing or dropping food
• Excessive drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
• Eating less or losing weight

Even if everything looks fine, we recommend annual dental evaluations — just like their regular wellness visits. Catching issues early means simpler treatment and a happier pet.

Your Local Englewood Veterinarian for Pet Dental Health

At Happy Paws & Claws, we take a little extra time with every patient. Our concierge-style approach means longer appointments, personal attention, and a calm environment — for pets and their people. We proudly serve families in Englewood, Dayton, Clayton, Brookville, Vandalia, Union, and throughout the greater Montgomery County area.

Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Exam Today

Don’t wait until your pet is in pain. A simple dental checkup can make a big difference in their quality of life.

Happy Paws & Claws Veterinary Clinic 📍 55 Hillside Ct, Englewood, OH 45322 📞 (937) 595-0660 🕐 Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM