Pet Dental Carein Hilliard, OH
At Hilliard Veterinary Hospital, we provide veterinary dentistry and oral care services for dogs and cats in Hilliard, Ohio, and the Columbus metro area. Dental health is one of the most critical aspects of your pet’s overall well-being, and our team is here to help you stay ahead of it.
A Clinic That Takes Dental Health Seriously
Dental care is an area of particular passion and expertise for Dr. Zoltan Djelmis. He has invested significant time and resources into advanced dental education and specialized equipment—going beyond the basics to offer thorough, compassionate oral care for the dogs and cats in our community.
According to the American Veterinary Dental College, 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of oral disease by age 3, making it the most frequently diagnosed health problem in pets. Despite how common it is, dental disease often goes unnoticed until it has already progressed—which is why routine professional care and annual dental evaluations are so important.
Why Annual Dental Exams Matter
Bacteria and food debris accumulate around your pet’s teeth over time. Without regular professional intervention, this buildup leads to deterioration of the soft tissue and bone surrounding the teeth—resulting in irreversible periodontal disease and eventual tooth loss. Routine cat and dog dental cleanings are one of the most effective ways to prevent this progression and protect your pet’s long-term health.
We recommend a professional dental evaluation for your pet at least once a year. Depending on your pet’s breed, age, and oral health history, more frequent visits may be advisable.
What Our Pet Dental Care Includes
Professional dental cleanings at Hilliard Veterinary Hospital are thorough, safe, and performed with modern ultrasonic equipment. Here’s what the process involves:
Comprehensive Oral Exam
Dr. Djelmis evaluates your pet’s teeth, gums, and oral tissues for signs of disease, infection, or structural concerns during every dental visit and as part of your pet’s annual wellness exam.
Ultrasonic Cleaning
We use modern, safe ultrasonic technology to clean each tooth thoroughly, removing plaque and tartar buildup both above and below the gum line—where the most damaging bacteria tend to accumulate.
Polishing
After cleaning, teeth are polished to create a smooth surface that’s more resistant to future plaque buildup.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride applications help strengthen enamel and reduce tooth sensitivity, supporting longer-lasting dental health between professional cleanings.
Dental X-Rays
Dental imaging allows our team to evaluate the health of tooth roots and the surrounding bone structure—areas that aren’t visible during a surface exam alone.
Because a thorough dental cleaning requires your pet to remain still for an extended period, the procedure is performed under anesthesia. Our team uses carefully tailored anesthetic protocols guided by preparatory in-house bloodwork as well as continuous monitoring to keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout.
The Real Impact of Dental Disease
Common signs that your pet may be experiencing oral disease include:
- Tartar buildup on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Persistent bad breath
- Changes in eating or chewing habits
- Pawing at the face
- Generalized lethargy or depression
If you’ve noticed any of these signs in your dog or cat, it’s worth scheduling a dental evaluation as soon as possible.
Expertise and Equipment That Make a Difference
Dr. Djelmis’s commitment to continuing dental education helps ensure our patients receive comprehensive oral care supported by specialized equipment and an experienced team. Combined with our specialized dental equipment and a team that approaches every procedure with precision and compassion, Hilliard Veterinary Hospital is a trusted destination for veterinary dentistry in the Columbus area.
Pet Dental Care FAQs
How do I know if my pet needs a dental cleaning?
Signs of dental disease include bad breath, visible tartar, red or swollen gums, difficulty chewing, and pawing at the mouth. That said, many pets show no obvious symptoms even when disease is present—which is why annual dental exams are so important.
Does my pet need to be under anesthesia for a cleaning?
Yes. A thorough professional cleaning requires your pet to remain completely still so we can safely clean below the gum line and take dental X-rays. Anesthesia also keeps the experience stress-free for your pet.
How often should my pet have a professional dental cleaning?
Most dogs and cats benefit from at least one professional cleaning per year. Some pets—particularly small breeds and those prone to dental disease—may need more frequent care. Your veterinarian will make a personalized recommendation.
Can I do anything at home to support my pet's dental health?
Absolutely. Regular toothbrushing with a pet-safe toothpaste is the most effective at-home option. Dental chews, water additives, and specially formulated diets can also help. Our team can recommend the best approach for your pet.
Is dental disease really that serious?
Yes. Untreated dental disease can lead to tooth loss, chronic pain, and systemic infections affecting the kidneys, liver, lungs, and heart. Addressing oral health proactively is one of the most meaningful things you can do for your pet’s overall quality of life.
Dental Care That Goes the Extra Mile
Oral health is a window into your pet’s overall wellness—and at Hilliard Veterinary Hospital, we treat it with the attention it deserves. Dr. Djelmis’s specialized training in veterinary dentistry, combined with our modern equipment and individualized care approach, means your dog or cat receives a level of dental care that genuinely makes a difference. We’re committed to helping pets throughout the Hilliard community maintain healthy mouths and healthier lives.
Veterinary Services
Pet Wellness Exams
Pet Parasite Control
Pet Laboratory Testing
Pet Soft Tissue Surgery