Dental Care
Just like humans, pets are prone to gum disease and dental problems. Alarmingly, studies show that up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop some form of dental disease by the age of three. At Broadford Vet Clinic, we understand that healthy teeth and gums are vital to your pet’s overall wellbeing and quality of life.
Why Pet Dental Health Matters
Dental health is a growing area of veterinary medicine, as research increasingly shows the significant impact oral disease can have on overall health. Untreated dental disease can lead to pain, infection, tooth loss, and systemic health problems affecting the kidneys, liver, and heart. Poor dental hygiene can even shorten your pet’s lifespan.
Plaque forms when bacteria, food particles, and saliva accumulate on teeth. If plaque is not removed, it hardens into tartar (calculus), which can cause gum inflammation, bone loss, and severe infection. Symptoms of dental disease in pets include bad breath, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, and difficulty eating.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Disease
- Persistent Bad Breath
- Red or Bleeding Gums
- Difficulty Chewing or Dropping Food
- Loose or Missing Teeth
- Reduced Appetite or Pain When Eating
What Happens During a Dental Procedure Under General Anaesthesia?
1. Full Dental Examination
Each tooth is charted and assessed for tartar, gingivitis, and gum pockets. Our clinic features digital dental x-rays to evaluate the health of tooth roots.
2. Dental Radiography
Dental radiographs are taken during the procedure because they allow us to see below the gumline, where most dental disease occurs and cannot be detected on a visual exam alone.
3. Plaque & Tartar Removal
We use specialised instruments, including ultrasonic scalers, to clean above and below the gum line.
4. Polishing
Teeth are polished using fine-grade paste to reduce future plaque build-up.
5. Extractions or Gum Surgery
Severely affected teeth may be removed, and gum surgery is performed with dissolvable stitches if needed.
6. Recovery
Pets usually go home the same day after monitoring. Antibiotics or anti-inflammatories may be administered if necessary.
7. Aftercare & Prevention
Following a professional dental clean, a long-term plan is essential to minimise future dental disease. This may include:
Regular Tooth Brushing – Use pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes daily. Human toothpaste is toxic to pets.
Dental Chews and Toys – Enzymatic chews, dental toys, or teeth-cleaning biscuits can help reduce tartar.
Special Dental Diets – Certain foods are designed to prevent plaque and tartar build-up.
We recommend a follow-up dental examination 6 months after cleaning to monitor your pet’s oral health and the effectiveness of your home care routine.
The best way to protect your pet from dental disease is prevention. Early and consistent dental care improves your pet’s quality of life, reduces the risk of serious illness, and may help avoid the need for anaesthetic dental procedures in the future.