Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Your pet should have a thorough dental exam at least once a year. Cats and dogs that are more prone to dental issues than others may need to see us more often. 

The veterinarians at Broadway Animal Hospital can examine, diagnose and treat dental health problems in cats and dogs. 

• Symptoms

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

  • Bad breath 
  • Discoloured teeth 
  • Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Tartar buildup 
  • Pain or swelling in or around the mouth
  • Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
  • Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth 
  • Loose and/or broken teeth 

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

  The veterinarian will complete a thorough pre-anesthetic physical assessment for your pet before their dental exam. 

  A blood and urine analyses will be performed 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 under anesthesia, we will complete a detailed oral examination (tooth-by-tooth) and charting. 

• Treatment

  Next, the teeth will be cleaned and polished (including below the gum line) and x-rays will be taken. The vet will then apply a fluoride treatment to each tooth. 

  We finish treatment with a dental sealant to prevent plaque from attacking the enamel. If advanced periodontal disease is discovered, the veterinarian will develop a treatment plan and discuss it with you. 

• Prevention

  Two weeks after the initial assessment and treatment appointment, a complimentary followup exam will be scheduled. 

  During this visit, we will explain how to implement teeth brushing at home. We can also recommend products to help improve 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?

  Just like us, our pets can develop periodontal disease or tooth decay as a result of poor oral health. 

  When animals eat, plaque attaches to their teeth and may build up into tartar if not brushed away on a regular basis. 

  This can lead to infections, tooth decay, loose or missing teeth and even periodontal disease. That's why regular dental care is critical to preventing disease or pain in your pet's gums. 

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

  Your pet's behavior can indicate problems with their oral health. If your pet is experiencing dental issues, they may paw at their mouth or teeth, or drool excessively (and there may be pus or blood in their drool). They may also grind their teeth, yawn excessively or stop grooming themselves as they normally would. 

  Other signs of oral health issues include swollen gums, bad breath and discolored teeth. Some pets may even suffer pain that can keep them from eating. Learn more about symptoms to the left under Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams. 

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

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

  Tumors or cysts may develop. Your pet may also experience general discomfort or not feel well (if you've ever had a toothache, you know that it can impact your mood!). Alarmingly, diseases associated with oral health conditions can also shorten your pet's lifespan and cause significant pain. 

  This is why regular dental care is so vital to your pet's physical health and well-being.

• What happens during a pet teeth cleaning appointment?

  During your pet's regular oral hygiene exam, the vet will check his or her mouth to look for oral health conditions, or any symptoms that may require treatment. 

  Tartar and other debris will be cleaned from your cat's or dog's teeth. If gingivitis, cavities or other conditions need to be addressed, the vet will make note of these and provide advice on any actions you should take. 

  In some cases, your pet will require surgery to address serious conditions. We will provide anesthesia before your pet's dental procedure to ensure they are comfortable and do not experience any pain. However, special care may be required after surgery. 

  If you notice any of the symptoms discussed above, schedule a dental appointment with us. 

• What should I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth clean between dental appointments?

  You should brush your pet's teeth on a regular basis at home and give them dental chew toys to keep their teeth healthy and sharp, and to eliminate plaque. 

  Do not allow them to chew on things that will damage their teeth, such as toys, objects or bones that are too hard. Always contact your vet with any questions or concerns you have regarding your pet's oral health.