Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Just like your own annual checkup with your dentist, your cat or dog should visit a veterinarian for a dental examination at least once each year. Pets that are more prone to developing oral health issues may need to see us more often. 

Veterinary Associates can assess, diagnose and treat dental health problems in cats and dogs. 

• Symptoms

  If you notice any of the following symptoms in your pet, it's time for a dental checkup.

  • Bad breath 
  • Tartar buildup
  • Discolored teeth 
  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Loose and/or broken teeth
  • Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
  • Pain or swelling in or around the mouth
  • Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
  • Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth 

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

  A thorough pre-anesthetic physical assessment will be completed for your pet before the dental exam. 

  We will take blood and urine analyses to ensure it's safe for your pet to undergo anesthesia. Additional diagnostics, such as chest radiographs or an ECG, may also be conducted. 

  Once your pet has been placed under anesthesia, we will complete a comprehensive oral examination and charting. 

• Treatment

  Next, the teeth are cleaned and polished (including under the gum line) and x-rays are taken. We then apply a fluoride treatment to each tooth. 

  The last step of your pet's treatment is the application of a dental sealant to prevent plaque and tartar from buildup up on your pet's teeth. If any periodontal disease is discovered, our vets will assess the situation and speak with you about it.

• Prevention

  Ideally, a follow-up examination will be scheduled two weeks after the initial assessment and treatment appointment. 

  During this visit, we will speak with you about implementing tooth brushing at home for your pet. We will also take this time to recommend any suitable oral health products that may improve your pet's dental health.

FAQs About Pet Dental Care

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from our clients about pet dental care.

• Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?

  Our pets can develop periodontal disease or tooth decay as a consequence of poor oral health. 

  Just like in humans, when animals eat, plaque sticks to their teeth and can build up into tartar if not brushed away regularly. 

  This may lead to infections in your pet's mouth, tooth decay, periodontal disease and even the loosening or loss of teeth. Because of this, routine dental care is critical to preventing disease and pain in the gums.

• How can I tell if my pet has oral hygiene issues?

  Did you know behavior may be an indication of oral health problems? If your pet is experiencing dental problems, they drool excessively (and the drool may contain pus or blood), or you may notice them pawing at their mouth or teeth. They may also yawn excessively, grind their teeth, or stop grooming sufficiently.

  Other signs of oral health problems include bad breath, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration. Some pets may even suffer from pain that keeps them from eating. Read more about symptoms to the left under Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams. 

• What long-term problems can poor oral health potentially cause in my pet?

  Besides causing problems ranging from cavities and bad breath to severe periodontal disease, oral health issues and conditions can lead to disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas throughout your pet's body. 

  Tumors and cysts may develop over time. Your pet may also feel generally unwell (if you've ever had a toothache, you know how it can affect your mood). In addition to this, diseases that are related to oral health conditions may shorten your pet's lifespan and cause them to experience significant pain.

  This is why regular dental care is so essential to animals' physical health and wellbeing. 

• What happens during a pet teeth cleaning appointment?

  During your pet’s regular oral exam, the vet will examine his or her mouth and look for oral health conditions or any symptoms needing treatment.

  The vet will clean tartar and other debris from your cat's or dog's teeth. If cavities, gingivitis, or other conditions need to be addressed, the vet will explain these to you and provide advice on which actions you should take. 

  In some cases, surgery will be needed to treat serious conditions. Your pet will be provided with anesthesia before their dental procedure to ensure they are comfortable and do not experience any pain. However, special care will be needed post-surgery. 

  If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental appointment with us. 

• What should I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth clean between dental appointments?

  At home, you should brush your pet's teeth on a regular basis and give them dental chew toys. These will help eliminate plaque. 

  Do not allow them to chew on things that will damage their teeth, such as bones, toys or objects that are too hard. Always contact your vet with any questions or concerns regarding your pet's oral health.