Dental health is an overall important part of total body health. As in people, poor dental health in pets can result in chronic pain, poor appetite, and can have detrimental effects on other organ health (liver, kidney and heart). Many changes in personality that are subtle to the owner can be a result of chronic pain, especially associated with dental disease. While focusing on prevention is important, many dental problems can be the result of genetic influences, such as in small dogs and cats. The annual examination is the most important time to evaluate for diseased areas, but sometimes a thorough oral exam can only be performed under general anesthesia. We believe that a healthy mouth makes for a healthy and happy pet!