Dental care for dogs and cats
Most pets show signs of dental disease by age three, and much of the damage hides below the gumline. Regular dental care protects their comfort and their overall health.
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Signs your pet may need a dental visit
- Bad breath
- Drooling
- Broken or discolored teeth
- Swelling in the face
- Pawing or rubbing at the mouth
- Eating less, or losing weight
What a dental visit involves
- An oral exam at your pet's yearly checkup
- If needed, a cleaning under anesthesia, the only way to clean below the gumline
- Full-mouth dental X-rays to check every tooth root and the bone around it
- Extractions only when a tooth can't be saved, with pain medication or nerve blocks
- Most pets are ready to eat dry food again after 7 to 10 days
Home care that helps
Daily toothbrushing, a dental diet, or dental chews can slow plaque and tartar between cleanings. We can show you how to start.
Common questions
Is anesthesia safe for dental work?
We screen every pet beforehand and monitor them closely during the procedure. Our surgery page explains our safety steps.
How often does my pet need a cleaning?
Many pets need their first around ages two to three. We'll set a schedule based on what we see at each exam.
Will my pet be in pain afterward?
We manage pain before, during, and after. Pets often feel better once painful teeth are gone.
Ready when you are
Choose your hospital, then call or book online.
New clients get a $50 coupon. One per household, no cash value. Excludes prescription medications and pet food. Get your coupon
Step 1Choose your hospital