Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Much like your annual checkup at the dentist, your dog or cat should come in for a dental examination at least once a year. Pets who are more prone to more dental problems may need to see us more often. 

College Animal Hospital can assess, diagnose and treat dental health problems in cats and dogs. 

• Symptoms

  If you notice any of these signs in your pet, it's time for an oral health checkup.

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

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

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

  Blood and urine are collected and analyzed 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 is under anesthesia, we will conduct a complete oral examination and charting of each tooth.

• Treatment

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

  The final step is to apply a dental sealant to prevent plaque from attaching to the enamel. If your veterinarian finds advanced periodontal disease, they will develop a treatment plan and discuss it with you. 

• Prevention

  A follow-up examination should ideally be scheduled two weeks after the initial assessment and treatment appointment. 

  During this visit, we will discuss implementing teeth brushing at home. We can also recommend products that can help improve your pet's oral health. 

FAQs About Pet Dental Care

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

• Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?

  Periodontal disease or tooth decay can be a consequence of poor oral health for our beloved pets.

  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 oral infections, 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 that changes in behavior can be a sign of oral health problems? If your pet is experiencing dental problems, they may 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 themselves sufficiently.

  Other signs of oral health problems include bad breath, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration. Some pets may suffer from pain that keeps them from eating, which is a serious concern.

• 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, serious oral health issues and conditions can lead to disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas throughout your pet's body. 

  If your pet is experiencing oral health issues, they are likely not feeling 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. 

  Regular dental care is an essential part of maintaining your pet's good health and wellbeing.

• What happens during my pet's tooth cleaning appointment?

  As your veterinarian performs an oral health exam on your pet, they will examine the animal's 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. 

  There may be more serious cases that require surgery. Your pet will be provided with anesthesia before their dental procedure to ensure they are comfortable and do not experience any pain. After the surgery, it is important to remember that special care will be needed for them at home.

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

• What should I do 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. 

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