Let’s Talk Teeth
Looking after your bud’s teeth early on is one of the easiest ways to keep their mouth comfy, clean and healthy for the long haul.
What is Dental Disease (and Why Should We Care?)
Dental disease (otherwise known as periodontal disease) is one of the most common health issues in pets. It starts with plaque building up on the teeth, hardening into tartar, and leading to a number of nasties such as gum inflammation, sore mouths, bad breath, and infections below the gumline. Left unchecked, it can be painful and even lead to other health concerns.
By the age of two, around 80% of dogs and 70% of cats already have some form of dental disease. Small breed dogs are especially prone, which is why early, routine care really matters.
The sneaky thing about dental disease? Most pets won’t let on that anything is wrong. You usually won’t spot the bigger signs like wobbly teeth or trouble eating until things are already quite advanced. But little clues, like bad breath or red gums can be the early heads up that something is going on. Catching those signs early is where the real magic happens, and we are here to help you do just that.
Why Prevention Matters
Getting ahead of dental disease means less discomfort for your pet, fewer big problems later down the track, and more stink-free kisses for you. Whether it’s brushing at home (yep, doggy toothpaste is a thing), choosing a dental-friendly diet, or booking in a dental clean, we’ll help you build a plan that works for you and your bud.
Already noticing signs like tartar, red gums, or a bit of a pong? Don’t worry, we’ve got you. We’ll get things back on track with a care plan tailored to your bud.
Okay, So Where Do We Start?
We know every bud is different, and their dental care is too. That’s why we always start with a thorough veterinary check-up, then build a plan that suits your bud’s needs from there.
A comprehensive oral health assessment and treatment (aka a dental scale and polish or dental clean as they are commonly referred to) is often part of that plan. It includes:
- Full-mouth dental X-rays to see what’s happening under the gumline
- A thorough clean and polish to remove plaque and tartar; and
- Close inspection and charting of each tooth for signs of damage or disease
These procedures are done under general anaesthetic by our experienced team, with gentle hands and plenty of care. While they leave your pet with a sparkling smile, the benefits go way beyond fresh breath. A pet dental clean plays a key role in preventing sore gums, tooth and bone loss, and broader health issues linked to dental disease.
Commonly Asked Dental Questions
Does my pet need to be under anaesthetic for a dental clean?
Yes. A general anaesthetic allows us to clean thoroughly under the gums, take clear X-rays, and keep the whole experience completely stress- and pain-free for your pet.
We get that anaesthesia can feel daunting. That’s why we do pre-anaesthetic blood testing to make sure they are fit and ready for an anaesthetic, use trusted medications, and monitor your bud every step of the way with the same care we’d give our own pets.
Do you take dental X-rays?
Absolutely. Dental X-rays are included in every dental clean so we can get a clear view of what’s happening beneath the gumline. When you pick up your pet, we’ll talk you through what we found and what it might mean for their care, so you’re always in the loop.
We also take dental x-rays after we extract teeth to make sure every bit of it is gone!
What if my pet needs dental extractions?
Every pet’s teeth are unique, so our dental extraction process and pricing is tailored to each individual bud. Our dental clean procedure gives us the perfect chance to take a thorough look and assess whether any teeth might need to come out in the future.
After your pet’s dental clean, you’ll sit down with a vet to chat through the findings, take a look at the X-rays together, and map out any next steps, including a plan for any extractions if needed.
If we suspect extractions may be on the cards during your initial check-up, we’ll talk you through what that could involve, so you feel fully informed and prepared. And of course, if you’d like to know more before then, just give us a call! We’re always happy to chat chompers.