Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Cleaning & Examinations

Typically most pets will see the dentist once a year unless suffering from other conditions or old age.

Our dog vets at Alondra Animal Hospital are here to assess, diagnose and treat dental health problems in your pets.

• Symptoms

  If you notice any of the following symptoms in your pet, it's time for a dental checkup.

  • 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

  Your vet will perform a complete pre-anesthetic physical exam to ensure that your pet will stay safe for the duration of the procedure.

  We will also perform extra diagnostics such as blood tests and urinalysis to be sure that your pet will be safe to undergo anesthesia. Additional diagnostics may also be conducted.

  Once your pet is under anesthesia, we will conduct a complete oral examination (tooth by tooth) and charting. 

• Treatment

  Your pet's teeth will be cleaned above and below the gum line. After the thorough cleaning, we will then apply a fluoride treatment to each tooth. 

  A dental sealant will be applied after your pet's teeth have been completed cleaned as a form of preventive care. If your dog or cat vet notices signs of periodontal disease, the veterinarian will develop a treatment plan and discuss it with you. 

• Prevention

  It is highly recommended to have a follow-up appointment after any dental surgery. These checkups will typically be scheduled for approximately two weeks after the initial assessment and treatment appointment. 

  During this visit, we will discuss implementing teeth brushing at home. We can also recommend products that can help improve your pet's oral health. 

FAQs About Veterinary Dentistry

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions at our hospital.

• Why is it important to clean my pet's teeth?

  Just like humans, pets can develop signs of poor oral health such as plaque and periodontal disease.

  Your pet's teeth need to be brushed regularly in order to ensure their overall health. 

  If left untreated, this buildup can lead to possible infections in the mouth, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even loose or missing teeth. That's why regular dental care is essential to preventing pain or disease in the gums.

• How will I know if my pet has oral hygiene issues?

  If your pet is experiencing common dental problems, they may begin to show signs of oral issues such as drooling excessively (and the drool may contain pus or blood), or they may use their paws to physically try to claw at their teeth and faces. They may also yawn excessively, grind their teeth, or stop grooming sufficiently.

  Bad breath, swollen gums and pain may all interfere with your pet's eating habits.

• are there any long-term effects of poor oral health?

  While we may be most aware of the short-term effects of dental issues, there are also some serious issues that may develop such as disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas throughout your pet's body. 

  If dental conditions are left untreated your pet may feel poorly overall as well as may potentially have their overall lifespan shortened.

  Routine dental care is an integral part of your pet's overall health.

• What happens during pet teeth cleaning appointments?

  During your pet's routine exam your vet will first thoroughly clean and examine your pet's teeth and look them over for any concerning symptoms.

  Any debris or tartar will be cleaned from your pet's teeth. If your vet notices any signs of cavities, gingivitis, or other conditions they will require those to be addressed immediately, by explaining their finding then suggesting and implementing a treatment plan.

  Your vet may consider dental surgery in severe cases. Your pet will be provided with anesthesia to ensure that they are comfortable and not in any pain for the duration of the surgery. However, your pet will require extra care after the surgery has been completed. 

• What is the best form of home care?

  Brushing your pet's teeth on a regular basis as well as providing them with dental chews and treats will help to scrub any tartar or build-up from their teeth. 

  Do not under any circumstances allow your pet to chew on anything that may cause them harm.