Dog Dental Care
Dental care for dogs is often one of the most overlooked aspects of their well-being. Just like people, dogs need regular teeth cleaning and dental check-ups to prevent plaque buildup, tartar formation, and gum disease.
Dental Services
- Dental Cleaning
- Tooth Extraction
Removal of fractured, abcessed, or otherwise damaged teeth
- Gingivectomy
Removal of diseased gum tissue
- Removal of oral tumors or masses
The importance of regular teeth cleanings
Dental problems are more common in dogs than many owners realize. Without proper dental care, your dog may suffer from painful conditions such as periodontal disease, abscesses, and even tooth loss.
Some benefits of professional dog teeth cleaning include:
- Removal of plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of dental disease
- Prevention of bad breath caused by bacteria buildup in the mouth
- Early detection of potential oral health issues, allowing for timely treatment
- Improved overall health and quality of life
How often does my dog need a dental cleaning?
Your dog's exact needs will depend on several things, including age and breed. However, in general, dogs should have their teeth cleaned annually.
Our veterinarians can provide a free dental evaluation to help you understand your dog's specific needs. They will also provide an exact quote for the services they are recommending.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning will include the following:
- Full mouth dental X-rays
- Tartar removal using specialized dental instruments
- Polishing of the enamel
- Disinfection of the mouth with fluoride sealer or plaque repellent treatment
What is dental X-ray and why is it important?
Did you know that more than half of your dog's tooth is under the gum line? That means that there is often much more going on than what can be seen with the naked eye. Many times these unseen issues are the source of pain for pets. Dental radiography, or dental X-ray, allows our veterinarians to see the full picture so that we can take care of each tooth.
Dental X-ray is an important part of creating the best outcome for your dog, so it is included in every dental procedure we perform at no additional cost. Your flat-rate quote will always remain the same, even if dental X-ray reveals additional services that need to be performed.
Will my dog need to be put under anesthesia?
At Twin Peaks, all dental cleanings and procedures are done under general anesthesia to ensure the best outcome. The quality of care your dog will receive is significantly higher than what could be provided while they are awake.
The price we quote includes pre-surgical bloodwork to make sure your dog is a good candidate for anesthesia before we proceed.
How do I know if my dog needs dental work?
We recommend having your dog's dental needs evaluated annually. However, if you notice any of these signs, it's best to have them seen right away:
- Bad Breath
This is often the first sign of dental disease. While occasional bad breath is normal, a consistent smell indicates a bacterial buildup
- Tartar and Plaque Buildup
Yellow or brown stains on your dog’s teeth are visible signs of plaque and tartar accumulation. This buildup can lead to gum disease if left untreated.
- Bleeding or Swollen Gums
If your dog's gums are red, swollen, or bleeding, this is a clear sign of gum disease. Without proper dental care, this can lead to painful infections and even tooth loss.
- Difficulty Eating or Chewing
If your dog seems to be avoiding hard foods, or if they are chewing on one side of their mouth, they could be experiencing dental pain.
- Excessive Drooling
While some drooling is normal for dogs, excessive drooling or signs of discomfort while eating could indicate a dental problem