Dentistry for Dogs & Cats
in Nash, Edgecombe, & Wilson Counties
Dental care is an important part of helping your pet stay healthy and comfortable throughout life. Preventive care can help teeth last longer, and regular dental visits give us the chance to spot problems early and recommend treatment before they become more advanced. At Coats Veterinary Hospital, we take an individualized approach to dental care and professional teeth cleaning based on your pet’s needs.
The veterinarians at Coats have extensive training and many years of experience providing advanced dental care and share a special interest in dentistry and dental health.
Why Dental Care Matters
Dental issues are not always easy to spot at home. In many cases, what you see on the surface is only part of the picture. Regular dental evaluations help us identify concerns early and recommend care that supports your pet’s comfort and long-term dental health.
Did You Know Cats and Dogs Have Different Dental Needs?
Cats and dogs do not always show dental disease in the same way, and that is one reason dental care looks a little different for each.
Cat Dental Care for Lifelong Wellness
Many people do not regularly look inside their cat’s mouth, and cats are especially good at hiding discomfort. They can develop issues such as cavities or resorptive lesions, and a lot can be happening in a cat’s mouth that is not easy to see at home. That is why regular veterinary dental care is especially important for cats.
Dog Dental Care for a Happier, Healthier Life
Many dogs come in because of bad breath or other visible signs of dental trouble. Even when the issue seems straightforward, there may be more going on than meets the eye.
Signs of Oral Issues and Dental Disease
Common symptoms of dental disease that pet owners can spot include:
Bad breath
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Loose or broken teeth
Difficulty chewing
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it's time to schedule a comprehensive dental exam with our team.
Advanced Imaging for Superior Dental Care
When it comes to dental health, what you see is only part of the story. The tooth is like an iceberg, with much of it hidden below the surface. That is why dental X-rays are such an important part of dental care. Dental radiographs help us look below the gumline and evaluate what is happening in places that cannot be seen during a visual exam alone.
Dental Care at Home
Home care is also an important part of helping your pet’s teeth last longer. We can talk with you about ways to support your pet’s dental health at home and how that care works alongside professional dental treatment.
What to Expect with a Dental Procedure
A thorough pre-anesthetic physical assessment will be completed for your pet before the dental exam. We will complete blood and urine testing to help confirm your pet is healthy enough for the procedure. Depending on your pet’s needs, additional tests such as chest radiographs or an ECG may also be recommended. We will also formulate a plan to prepare for essential extractions.
A full dental cleaning requires general anesthesia. Once your pet is under anesthesia, we will conduct a complete oral examination (tooth by tooth). Next, we clean and polish your pet’s teeth (including under the gum line). If advanced periodontal disease is found, we’ll develop a treatment plan and walk you through our recommendations.
Book Your Pet's Next Dental Appointment
Call us at (252) 407-1616, text us at (252) 557-8624, request a visit online, or connect through the client portal to learn more about our pet dentistry services.
