Midwest Veterinary Dentistry

06/02/2026

☀️🦷 Summer Fun Shouldn't End in a Broken Tooth

As pets spend more time outdoors and enjoy summer treats, we see an increase in fractured teeth. Hard bones, antlers, ice cubes, and even some chew toys can cause painful dental injuries.

If your pet suddenly starts chewing on one side, drops food, or seems reluctant to eat, a broken tooth could be the reason.

Protect their smile this summer by choosing safer chew options and scheduling an exam if you notice any changes.

Learn more at https://www.midwestvetdentistry.com/

05/10/2026

🌸💗 Happy Mother’s Day! 💗🌸

Today we’re celebrating all the amazing moms out there—including the devoted pet moms who go above and beyond every single day. 🐾

From early morning walks to late-night snuggles, you do it all… and your pets love you for it!

At Midwest Veterinary Dentistry, we also know that caring for your pet means caring for their health—especially their smile. A healthy mouth plays a big role in your pet’s overall well-being, and there’s no better way to show love than helping them live a happy, healthy life.

Here are a few simple ways to keep your pet’s smile shining:

🦷 Brush their teeth regularly – Consistency is key for preventing plaque and tartar buildup.
🦴 Choose VOHC-approved products – The VOHC seal means the product has been scientifically proven to reduce tartar.
👃 Don’t ignore bad breath – It’s often a sign of dental disease, not just “doggy breath.”
🐶 Schedule regular dental checkups – Preventive care goes a long way!

To all the moms (and pet moms): thank you for the love, care, and dedication you give every day. 💕

04/15/2026

📅💼 It’s April 15th — Tax Day is here!

While you're busy filing for Uncle Sam, don’t forget about the ones who always make life less taxing… your pets! 🐾💙

At Midwest Veterinary Dentistry, we know life gets hectic. Even on your busiest days, taking a few minutes to play with your pet and care for their dental health can make a big difference in their happiness and overall well-being.

Here are a few quick tips to keep those tails wagging and smiles shining:

🦷 Brush regularly – Even a few times a week helps reduce plaque and prevent dental disease.
🦴 Use dental chews or toys – Look for products with the VOHC seal, which guarantees tartar reduction through scientific studies.
👀 Check for warning signs – Bad breath, red gums, or difficulty eating could mean it’s time for a dental check.
🎾 Make time to play – A quick game of fetch or cuddle break can reduce stress for both you and your pet!

Taxes may be unavoidable, but dental disease is preventable. 😉 Give your pet some extra love today—they’ve earned it!

04/05/2026

🌷🐣 Happy Easter from Midwest Veterinary Dentistry! 🐰🦷

We hope your day is filled with family, joy, and maybe a few treats along the way!

While you’re celebrating, don’t forget: some holiday goodies (especially sweets) aren’t so great for our pets’ teeth or tummies. Keeping their smiles healthy helps them enjoy many more happy holidays to come.

From all of us at Midwest Veterinary Dentistry, we’re grateful to be part of keeping your pets healthy, comfortable, and smiling. 💙🐾

Wishing you and your furry family members a joyful and blessed Easter! 🌸

03/17/2026

☘️ Happy St. Patrick’s Day from Midwest Veterinary Dentistry! ☘️🐶🐱

Feeling lucky today? Your pet’s smile should be too!

Good dental care can keep your furry friend’s teeth shining brighter than a pot of gold. 🌈🦷

Lucky tips for healthy pet teeth:
☘️ Brush your pet’s teeth regularly with pet-safe toothpaste
☘️ Provide dental chews approved for oral health
☘️ Schedule regular dental checkups with your veterinarian
☘️ Watch for signs like bad breath, red gums, or difficulty eating

A healthy mouth helps your pet stay happy, comfortable, and ready for all the adventures life brings.

Learn more about caring for your pet’s smile at:
https://www.midwestvetdentistry.com/

May your day be filled with luck, wagging tails, and bright smiles! 🍀

02/27/2026

We were surprised with flowers from a client today at Midwest Veterinary Dentistry, and it truly made our day. 💐🐾

As a specialty dental practice, we don’t always get years to build relationships: but knowing we’ve made a difference in a pet’s comfort and a family’s life means everything to us.

This is why we do what we do.

Thank you for the kindness and trust. 💙

02/26/2026

When Dental Problems Need More Than Brushing 🐶🐱

🦷 Dental disease is the number one disease in dogs and cats.

Even with excellent home care, some pets develop dental disease that requires advanced treatment.

Signs your pet may need professional dental care include:

🦷 Bad breath
🦷 Difficulty eating or dropping food
🦷 Red or bleeding gums
🦷 Loose or broken teeth
🦷 Facial swelling or oral pain

At Midwest Veterinary Dentistry, we specialize in diagnosing and treating complex dental conditions — including extractions, periodontal disease, fractures, oral tumors, and advanced imaging when needed.

Dental treatment isn’t just about teeth — it’s about restoring comfort, preventing infection, and improving quality of life.

If your pet is showing signs of oral discomfort, early treatment can make a world of difference. 🐾💙

06/25/2025

🦷🐶 Veterinary Dental Spotlight: Peripheral Odontogenic Fibroma – The Most Common Benign Oral Tumor in Dogs 🐶🦷
As a veterinary dental specialty practice, we frequently diagnose peripheral odontogenic fibromas (POFs)—the most common benign oral tumor in dogs.
📌 What is it?
Formerly called fibromatous or ossifying epulis, this tumor arises from the periodontal ligament. It’s typically firm, slow-growing, and non-invasive, but can cause significant displacement of teeth and interfere with occlusion or normal chewing.
🔍 Key clinical signs:
• Localized gingival mass, often near the premolars
• Firm, pink growth (may look like overgrown gum tissue)
• Tooth displacement or abnormal bite
• Difficulty chewing or discomfort
🦴 Although benign, complete surgical excision—including removal of any associated periodontal ligament tissue and underlying bone—is critical to prevent recurrence.
📣 We accept referrals for advanced imaging, biopsy, and surgical management of oral masses. Early identification and precise treatment help preserve oral function and improve quality of life.
📞 For consultations or referrals, contact 217-619-6072.

Send a message to learn more

03/25/2025

🦷🐾 Curious About Your Pet's Dental Health? 🐾🦷

At Midwest Veterinary Dentistry, we understand how important it is to keep your pet's teeth in top shape, but we know there are a lot of questions about veterinary dentistry!

What do you want to know about taking care of your pet's teeth? 🤔💬

How often should your pet's teeth be cleaned?

What are signs of dental issues in pets?

Why is dental care so important for their overall health?

Drop your questions in the comments below, and our expert team will help answer them! 🐶🐱💙

Send a message to learn more

03/07/2025

We would like to introduce to everyone to a new face you will be seeing around the clinic!

My name is Dr. Julie Voelker. I graduated in 2016 with my Doctorate from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. I joined a local pet clinic and practiced general medicine for ten years, but found a love and interest in veterinary dentistry. It was difficult for me to walk away from my patients and clients, but I have found a new home. I am in my 2nd year of pursuing a Specialty Dental Degree in Veterinary Dentistry for the American Veterinary Dental College. I still dream of having a dental specialty and general practice together! I am thrilled to be "reunited" with Dr. Baker, my dentistry supervisor. Working side by side with him has been a great pleasure and opportunity to learn from the best! I think he might be related to me?

I have a husband, Brian Keith, that is a Chemist and works for Vistra Energy. We have two children that we are very proud of, Brian and Brooke. Brian graduated in 2024 with a degree in Animal Sciences from Illinois State University. I am blessed to have him working with me at the practice.

Brooke graduates this spring with her degree in Animal Science for the University of Illinois. She will be pursuing her veterinary degree at the University of Florida in the fall.

Our house is ran by our animals. We have two German Shepherds, Woozie and Baron, that we love dearly. Bryzzo, a rescued cat, that I got within the first couple months after starting to practice veterinary medicine.