beige dog in waiting room

Pet dental care

Dental disease is the most common condition diagnosed in dogs and cats and is also common in rabbits. It's estimated that up to 80% of pets will experience some form of dental disease during their lives.

We provide comprehensive pet dental care, including regular dental checks to assess the health of your pet's teeth and gums. We also offer professional dog dental hygiene and cat dental care services.

Recognising dental disease in pets

It's important to bring your pet in for a vet consultation if you notice any of the following signs of dental disease:

  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Bleeding gums
  • Inflamed gums and tissues
  • Excessive drooling
  • Changes in eating habits
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Teeth chattering
  • Pawing or rubbing at the face

Cats and dogs are often skilled at hiding pain, so they may continue eating despite severe dental problems. Routine vet check-ups are really important for identifying hidden dental issues. Our vets will perform a thorough dental examination when your pet visits for a health check.

Vet examining dogs teeth

What happens if my dog or cat requires dental surgery?

If your pet requires dental surgery, they will be placed under general anaesthetic to protect their airways during the procedure. This allows us to safely perform dental examinations, cat dental cleaning, ultrasonic scaling, and tooth extractions. X-rays may also be taken to identify issues beneath the gum line, as dental disease often occurs there. Each tooth will be individually assessed to ensure your pet receives the best care. For a more detailed explanation of the process, you can read our step-by-step guide to dental treatment in pets, which covers the procedure for both cats and dogs.

Preventing dental disease

Regular at-home care and a regular scale and polish by your vet, are key to preventing dental disease in your pets. Fewer than 4% of owners brush their dog's teeth daily and almost half never brush their teeth at all, yet brushing your pet's teeth daily using pet-safe toothpaste is the most effective way to prevent dental issues. A healthy diet, dental chews, hygiene toys, and water additives can also help maintain good oral health.