Dental Care
Martha’s Vineyard

Comprehensive Oral Health

Dental disease is one of the most common conditions in pets—especially dogs—and it often develops below the gumline where it can’t be seen during a routine exam.

At Vineyard Veterinary Clinic, we focus on true dental diagnosis and treatment, not just surface-level cleaning.

Why Dental Exams Require More Than a Quick Look

We always evaluate your pet’s mouth during annual visits, but it’s important to understand:

• A complete oral exam cannot be performed in the exam room alone
• Most dental disease is hidden beneath the gumline
• Dental X-rays (radiographs) are essential for accurate diagnosis

Because of this, we follow veterinary dental guidelines for annual Comprehensive Oral Health Assessments and Treatments (COHATs) under general anesthesia.

What Is a COHAT?

A COHAT includes:

• General anesthesia with careful monitoring
• Full-mouth dental radiographs
• Complete oral exam and charting
• Treatment of dental disease when identified

What We Can Treat

Our team provides:

• Dental cleanings (as part of a COHAT)
• Dental extractions, including surgical extractions
• Treatment of periodontal disease

For advanced or high-risk cases, we refer to a board-certified veterinary dentist or specialty hospital.

At-Home Dental Care

Daily care at home is essential. We recommend:

• Regular tooth brushing
• Dental diets or approved products
• Monitoring for signs like bad breath or difficulty eating

Professional dental procedures support your pet’s health—but ongoing care starts at home.

Dogs, Cats & Select Exotics

We offer dental care for dogs and cats, and limited exotic species on a case-by-case basis. Please contact us to discuss your pet’s specific needs.