Pet Dentistry FAQs

Why brush my pet's teeth?

Looking to improve your pet’s overall health? Start with good oral hygiene. Plaque and tartar build up at the gum line can cause serious damage, so brushing your pet’s teeth on a regular basis is something you will want to implement into your daily routine. As the plaque and tartar accumulate, they loosen and destroy the attachment of the tooth. In addition to loose teeth, bacteria trapped in tartar close to the gum line can spread via the bloodstream to the liver, kidneys, and heart.

How often should my pet's teeth be cleaned by the veterinarian?

If you are able to brush teeth at home, it will increase the interval between professional veterinary cleanings. There is much variation between cats and dogs and various species within. Generally, the smaller the head, the more crowded the teeth, the thicker the tartar, and disease. Owners are encouraged to examine their pet's teeth monthly. Look for accumulation of yellow or brown material where the tooth meets the gum line. Once you notice discoloration or red gums, it's time for a professional cleaning. If you cannot brush your pet's teeth, he or she can have one to two cleaning visits yearly at the veterinary hospital.

Can I use my fingernail or hand scaler to remove the tartar?

By removing tartar from the tooth by hand, you are usually unable to remove disease below the gum line. In addition, dental tools such as hand scalers that are not properly sharpened can actually scrape the enamel.

Do you have to use anesthesia to clean my pet's teeth?

Anesthesia is necessary when performing teeth cleaning. It provides immobilization in order to clean properly, provide pain relief, and allows the doctor the ability to place a tube into the windpipe so bacteria doesn't enter the lungs. Pets are given pre-operative tests depending on their age and condition to qualify them for anesthesia. Patients are monitored while under sedation.

What is involved in a dental prophylaxis?

Quality dental facilities usually have these procedures in common: exam and blood testing, full mouth radiographs, periodontal probing, tartar removal, subgingival scaling, tooth polishing, charting and therapy for diseased teeth, home care and follow up instructions.

How much does a tooth cleaning procedure cost?

It is difficult to determine precisely what the procedure will cost until your doctor knows the status of your pet's teeth and gums. They can quote general cleaning fees but the total bill varies with what is found during the procedure.

When do I have to start worrying about dental problems with my pet?

As soon as puppy or kitten teeth emerge, it’s time to start brushing!

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