Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Your dog or cat should have a dental examination at least once a year, just like you do. Pets who are more prone to dental problems than others may require more frequent visits.

Stoney Pointe Pet Hospital is capable of assessing, diagnosing, and treating dental health issues in cats and dogs.

• Symptoms

  Your pet needs a dental exam if you notice any of the following signs.

  • 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 from the mouth 
  • Discolored teeth 

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

  Prior to the dental exam, your pet will undergo a thorough pre-anesthetic physical examination.

  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. 

  After anesthesia, we will chart and examine your pet's mouth tooth by tooth.

• Treatment

  Afterward, x-rays are taken, and the teeth are cleaned and polished (including under the gum line). Each tooth is then given a fluoride treatment.

  To prevent plaque from adhering to the enamel, the final step is to apply a dental sealant. If advanced periodontal disease is discovered, the veterinarian will develop and discuss a treatment plan with you.

• Prevention

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

  During this visit, we will talk about how to brush your pet's teeth at home. We can also recommend products that will help your pet's oral health.

FAQs About Pet Dental Care

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

• Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?

  Poor oral health in our pets can lead to conditions like periodontal disease and tooth decay.

  When animals eat, plaque forms on their teeth, just as it does in humans, and if it isn't removed regularly, it hardens into tartar.

  Dental infections, periodontal disease, decay, and even missing teeth can result because of this. Regular dental care helps to keep gum disease and pain at bay.

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

  Did you know that behavior can be a sign of oral health issues? If your pet has dental problems, you may notice them drooling excessively (and the drool may contain pus or blood) or pawing at their mouth or teeth. Additionally, they may yawn excessively, grind their teeth, or cease grooming adequately.

  Additionally, bad breath, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration are signs of oral health problems.

  Certain pets may even experience pain that prevents them from eating. To the left, under Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams, you can read more about the symptoms.

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

  Oral health issues and conditions can cause disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other organs of your pet's body.
  
  Cysts or tumors can form. If your pet has a toothache, it can even affect their mood. Oral diseases can also shorten your pet's lifespan and cause significant pain.

  That's why regular dental care is vital to your pet's health.

• What happens during a pet tooth cleaning appointment?

  During your pet's routine oral exam, the veterinarian will examine his or her mouth for any oral health issues or symptoms that require treatment.

  Tartar and other debris will be removed from your cat's or dog's teeth by the veterinarian. If cavities, gingivitis, or other issues need to be addressed, the veterinarian will explain them to you and advise you on how to proceed.

  Surgery will be required in some cases to treat serious conditions. Before their dental procedure, your pet will be given anesthesia to ensure that they are comfortable and pain-free. However, special attention will be required following surgery.

  Make an appointment with us if you notice any symptoms.

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

  Brushing your pet's teeth and providing dental chew toys should be done on a regular basis at home. These will aid in the removal of plaque.

  Do not allow them to chew on things that will harm their teeth, such as bones, toys, or hard objects. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet's oral health, always contact your veterinarian.