Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Cat & Dog 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 dental problems than others may need return more often. 

The Beacon Veterinary Associates can assess, diagnose, and treat dental health problems in cats and dogs. 

• Symptoms

  If your pet exhibits any of the following symptoms, your dog or cat should visit a dentist.

  • 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

  Before 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. 

  Once your pet is sedated, we will perform a thorough oral examination (tooth by tooth) and charting.

• Treatment

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

  Finally, a dental sealant is applied to prevent plaque from adhering to the enamel. If advanced periodontal disease is discovered, the veterinarian will devise a treatment plan and consult with you on it.

• 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 can lead to periodontal disease or tooth decay in our pets.

  When animals eat, plaque adheres to their teeth. And if not brushed away on a regular basis, it can harden into tartar.

  This can result in oral infections, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even loose or missing teeth. That is why regular dental care is critical for preventing gum pain and disease.

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

  Did you know that behavior can be an indicator of oral health issues? If your pet has dental problems, you may notice them drooling excessively (which may contain pus or blood) or pawing at their mouth or teeth. They may also yawn a lot, grind their teeth, or fail to groom adequately.

  Bad breath, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration are other signs of oral health problems.

  Some pets may even experience pain that prevents them from eating. More information about symptoms can be found on the left under Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams.

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

  Oral health issues and conditions, in addition to causing problems ranging from cavities and bad breath to severe periodontal disease, can lead to disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas throughout your pet's body.

  Cysts or tumors may form. Your pet may also be feeling under the weather in general (if you've ever had a toothache, you know how it can affect your mood!). Furthermore, diseases associated with oral health conditions can shorten your pet's lifespan and cause significant pain.

  This is why regular dental care is so important for the physical health and well-being of animals.

• What happens during teeth cleaning appointments?

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

  Tartar and other debris will be removed from your pet's teeth by the veterinarian. If cavities, gingivitis, or other conditions need to be addressed, the veterinarian will explain them to you and advise you on what steps to take.

  Surgery may be required in some cases to treat serious conditions. Anesthesia will be administered to your pet prior to the dental procedure to ensure that they are comfortable and pain-free. However, special care will be required following surgery.

• 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. These will aid the removal of plaque.

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