Dental Care for Pets in Lumberton, NC

At Front Porch Veterinary Clinic, we believe that healthy smiles lead to healthier lives—for pets and their people. As a trusted, AAHA-accredited veterinary clinic in Lumberton, NC, we offer personalized dog and cat dental care in a warm, calming environment led by Dr. Elisabeth Stone. From routine cleanings to advanced treatments, our team is here to provide compassionate, preventive care that protects your pet’s long-term health. If you’re searching for pet dental care, we invite you to schedule a gentle, thorough dental exam with us today.

Veterinary dental care goes far beyond fresh breath. It includes comprehensive oral exams, dental cleanings under anesthesia, digital dental X-rays, and extractions when necessary. Over time, tartar buildup, inflamed gums, and infected teeth can lead to serious health problems, affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. By addressing dental concerns early, we help prevent chronic pain and costly complications—supporting a longer, happier life for your pet.

Most pets benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year, though some may need more frequent care. Small breeds, senior pets, and pets with known dental issues often require more regular attention. These cleanings are performed under anesthesia for your pet’s comfort and safety and include thorough plaque and tartar removal. Our team is ready to help you build a personalized dental care plan.

Wondering if your pet may need a dental checkup? Watch for these common signs:

• Bad breath
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Pawing at the mouth or face
• Dropping food or eating less
• Excessive drooling

These symptoms could point to underlying dental disease and should never be ignored. Give us a call. We’re here to help.

While cavities in pets are rare, tartar buildup, plaque, and periodontal disease are very common. Left untreated, these issues can lead to pain, infection, and tooth loss. Bacteria from the mouth can also spread to major organs. That’s why regular dental cleanings and exams are so important. If you’ve been searching for a vet dentist, you’ve found a team that prioritizes prevention and gentle, effective pet care.

It’s never too early to start! We recommend introducing tooth brushing around 3–6 months of age, once adult teeth begin to emerge.

• Use pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste)
• Start slow with short sessions and positive reinforcement
• Aim for brushing daily or at least 3 times a week

Even with consistent home care, professional cleanings remain essential. We’ll walk you through brushing techniques and help build a complete oral care routine.

Persistent bad breath isn’t normal—it’s often the first sign of dental disease. Possible causes include:

• Gingivitis or periodontal disease
• Infected or abscessed teeth
• Foreign objects lodged in the mouth
• Oral tumors

If your pet’s breath has taken a turn for the worse, it’s time for an evaluation. One of our experienced veterinarians at Front Porch can identify the cause and recommend next steps.

A broken tooth is a painful emergency. Here’s what to do:

• Contact us right away at (910) 738-9368
• Don’t let your pet chew on hard objects or toys
• Treatment may include an extraction, depending on the damage

Whether your pet broke a tooth on a bone or toy, our clinic is here for urgent care. For families seeking dog tooth extraction, we’re ready to provide gentle, expert attention.

Costs for your pet’s Complete Oral Health Examination and Treatment (COHAT), also called a dental cleaning, vary based on your pet’s health, the amount of tartar present, and whether extractions are needed. As an AAHA-accredited hospital, full-mouth dental x-rays are required with all dental procedures. At Front Porch, we provide upfront treatment plans and walk you through every step, so you have peace of mind and know what to expect for your pet’s care and for you financially. Investing in routine dental care now often prevents more serious (and costly) issues later. Give us a call—we’ll help you budget for a healthier future.

Delaying or skipping dental care can result in:

• Chronic oral pain
• Tooth loss
• Gum infections
• Systemic infections affecting the heart, liver, or kidneys

Routine care not only keeps your pet’s mouth healthy—it protects their entire body. Don’t wait until there’s a problem. If you’re searching for pet dental care, we encourage you to schedule an exam today.

At Front Porch Veterinary Clinic, we combine advanced veterinary medicine with a family-first approach. Our AAHA-accredited team uses gentle techniques, clear communication, and individualized care plans to make every dental visit comfortable and effective. Whether your pet needs a routine cleaning or a more complex procedure, you’ll find expert support at your full-service vet in Lumberton, NC.

We proudly care for dogs, cats, senior pets, and those with special needs—and we treat every patient like family.