Dentistry

Just like us, your pets teeth need looking after too. The health of their teeth and gums has a significant impact on their overall quality of life. 

If you're concerned about your pets teeth or gums, feel free to book online for your complimentary dental consultation with one of our vets where we can plan with you what work may need to be done and discuss the costs involved.

Unlike some other hospitals, once your pet has been admitted for their procedure we have the capacity to perform a full assessment under anaesthetic, call you (if needed) for an update if any extra treatment may be required and complete any dental work, all within the one general anaesthetic on the same day.

We don't believe in splitting any dental work over two or more anaesthetics, as that only increases the cost to you and risks to your pet.

Dental disease begins with a build-up of plaque, consisting of bacteria, food particles and saliva components, on the teeth. Plaque sticks to the tooth surface above and below the gum line and if not removed will calcify into tartar (also known as calculus). This appears as a yellow-brown material on the teeth. 

Over time the plaque and tartar can result in irreversible periodontal disease, which culminates in gum recession and "pocketing" around the base of the tooth. Once this occurs the tooth can become exposed and sensitive causing pain and a focus for further debris and bacteria worsening any smell. 

If found early enough, we can descale and polish the crowns of the teeth removing this build up of bacteria and plaque. In most cases we can also salvage many teeth by descaling under the gum line. For those teeth that have lost their support from the gum, they can be carefully and gently extracted removing the source of the pain.

Common signs of dental disease include:
 

  • Yellow-brown tartar around the gum line
  • Inflamed, red gums
  • Bad breath
  • Change in eating or chewing habits (especially in cats)
  • Pawing at the face or mouth
  • Excessive drooling
  • Pain or bleeding when you touch the gums or mouth

If your pet is showing any of these signs of dental disease please book an appointment to see one of our veterinarians. Early assessment and action can save your pet’s teeth!

Some animals with dental disease may show no obvious signs particularly in the early stages. It is also important to remember that just because your pet is eating, it doesn’t mean they do not have dental pain.