Warning signs
- Persistent bad breath.
- Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth.
- Red or bleeding gums.
- Chewing on one side, dropping food or pawing at the mouth.
Check-ups and cleaning at the clinic
We check the mouth at every consultation. If there is tartar, the cleaning is done with ultrasound under anaesthesia, as it is the only way to clean below the gum line without causing distress. Beforehand we run a blood test so the anaesthetic is safe and, if a tooth is damaged, we remove it during the same procedure.
Care at home
- Brushing with a pet toothbrush and pet toothpaste (never human toothpaste), introduced gradually.
- Dental treats or toys as an extra.
- Special dental diets, available at the clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Is the anaesthetic dangerous?
With a pre-anaesthetic blood test and proper monitoring, the risk is low. We will talk it through with you based on your pet's age and health.
How often is a cleaning needed?
It depends on the animal: some need one every year, others much less often if their teeth are brushed at home.