Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Cat & Dog Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Similar to your annual checkup at the dentist, we should see your dog or cat for a dental examination at least once each year. Pets who are more prone to dental issues than others may need to see us more often. 

Dana Park Veterinary Hospital can examine, diagnose and treat dental health issues in cats and dogs. 

• Symptoms

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

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

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

  Before your pet's dental exam, we will complete a thorough pre-anesthetic assessment. 

  Blood and urine analyses will be taken to ensure your pet can safely undergo anesthesia. Additional diagnostics, such as chest radiographs or an ECG/EKG may also be conducted. 

  We will perform a complete oral examination (tooth by tooth) and charting once your pet is under anesthesia. 

• Treatment

  Next, the teeth will be cleaned and polished (including under the gum line) and X-Rays will be taken. The veterinarian will then apply a fluoride treatment to each tooth. 

  The last step is to apply a dental sealant to prevent plaque from sticking to the enamel. If advanced periodontal disease is discovered, the veterinarian will create a treatment plan and review it with you. 

• Prevention

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

  At this visit, we will explain how you can implement teeth brushing at home. We can also recommend products that may help improve your pet's oral health. 

FAQs About Pet Dental Care

These are some of the most frequently asked questions we've received from our patients 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 can lead to infections in the mouth, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even loose or missing teeth. That's why regular dental care is essential to preventing pain or disease 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. 

  Cysts or tumors may develop. Your pet may also not feel well in general (if you've ever had a toothache, you know how it can affect your mood!). In addition, diseases related to oral health conditions can shorten the lifespan of your pet and cause 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.