Dental Care
Supporting overall pet health through comprehensive dental care
You may not think about your pet’s teeth unless they’re chewing on your shoes or have bad breath, but your dog or cat’s oral health is a critical part of their overall well-being.
Routine exams and dental care at Best Friends Animal Hospital and Pet Resources are the best way to protect your pet from harmful dental disease.
According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have dental disease by the age of 3.
Why do pets need dental care?
Like us, pets are vulnerable to dental (periodontal) disease. Caused by a buildup of bacteria (plaque and tartar), dental disease can lead to tooth decay, chronic pain and infection, and root or bone loss. Left untreated, severe dental disease can cause organ damage, as harmful bacteria overwhelm the mouth and enter the bloodstream.
Other oral conditions that can be identified and addressed with routine care include:
- Fractured (broken) teeth
- Oral tumors
- Jaw abnormalities
- Tooth resorption (in cats)
- Chronic gingivitis/stomatitis.
How often do pets need dental care?
Following AAHA guidelines, we recommend yearly oral exams and professional cleanings under anesthesia for all adult dogs and cats. This allows us to detect minor problems before they become serious, painful, and potentially costly to treat.
Additionally, request a dental consultation if your pet is showing signs such as:
- Discoloration (yellow or brown) of the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Bad breath
- Excessive drooling
- Changes in eating or chewing habits
- Pawing at the face
- Facial swelling
- Personality changes (irritability, depression)
How we can help: Dentistry services
We offer a range of services to prevent and address dental disease and other oral conditions, including:
- Full-mouth dental X-rays — X-rays provide a full view of each tooth, from crown to root (where disease often starts).
- Dental cleaning — Ultrasonic scaling and gentle polishing remove plaque and tartar and smooth tooth surfaces.
- Gentle techniques — Our veterinarians and technicians use the utmost care to protect sensitive oral tissues.
- Dental surgery and tooth extraction — We can safely remove broken or diseased teeth and treat other conditions.
- Pain management — A combination of local nerve blocks and oral and injectable pain medication keeps your pet comfortable before, during, and after their procedure.
Specialist referral — If your pet’s condition requires a complicated repair or multiple procedures, we may refer you to a trusted veterinary dental specialist.
Will my pet be under anesthesia?
Yes. Safe and effective dental care for pets requires general anesthesia. This allows us to thoroughly examine your pet’s mouth, take X-rays, clean below the gumline, and perform any necessary treatments—all without stress, pain, or movement. While anesthesia is never risk-free, we use advanced monitoring, individualized protocols, and highly trained veterinary technicians to keep your pet safe and comfortable.
How can I protect my pet from dental disease?
At-home dental care—like tooth brushing, dental chews, or a dental diet—can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Starting tooth brushing early, when your pet is a puppy or kitten, makes them more likely to accept it as they grow. Avoid hard bones and chew toys, which can lead to painful tooth fractures. Not sure where to start? Just ask—we’re here to help!