Dental Care Services for Pets

Dental care greatly affects your pet's overall well-being. The mouth is a vascular organ which means it is connected to the bloodstream. An infection in the mouth can spread to other areas of the body. To maintain good oral health, veterinarians recommend good hygiene at home and regular dental cleanings. Pets should have bi-annual professional cleanings to remove hardened plaque and prevent periodontal disease (gum disease).

What is a professional dental cleaning?

Our hospital provides safe and efficient dental cleanings for cats and dogs. These cleanings are essential for adult and senior pets. We prioritize your pet's comfort and safety, so we use anesthesia during dental cleanings. When your pet is unconscious, we can examine and clean the teeth in the back and below the gum line. We use imaging diagnostics to check for dental disease and dental tools to remove plaque and tartar. Our team will also polish your pet's teeth during the dental cleaning appointment. Your veterinarian will discuss at-home care at the end of the appointment. To schedule a dental cleaning for your pet, please call us at 250-376-6797.

How can I tell if my pet has dental disease?

If your pet's dental care is neglected, they are more likely to develop dental disease. Many pets can have the disease, but the symptoms are seen as normal until a more serious problem arises. Some signs of dental disease are:

1. Bad “doggy” breath
2. Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
3. Red, swollen or bleeding gums
4. Blood on chew toys
5. Changes in eating and chewing 
6. Loose teeth
7. Pawing at the face

How can I maintain good dental health in my pet?

Aside from yearly dental cleanings, you should clean your pet's teeth daily. It's not an easy task, but the more you do it, the easier it gets. Our team will demonstrate how to brush your pet's teeth safely and can recommend pet toothpastes your loyal companion will enjoy. To safely clean your pet's teeth at home, you must use a pet-safe toothbrush, as the ones made for humans can hurt them. Brushing your pet's teeth daily removes plaque and prevents tartar from forming. In addition to regular brushing, we sometimes recommend dental chews that help clean your pet's teeth.