Dental Care for Pets

Tips For Keeping Your Pet’s Teeth Healthy

When we think about pet health, we often focus on vaccinations, diet, or exercise. But dental care for pets is equally important … and often overlooked. At Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario, we see firsthand how proper oral hygiene can prevent disease and extend a pet’s life.

This blog from an East London, ON veterinarian will explain why dental care matters, how to recognize dental problems in pets, and what preventative steps you can take to keep your pet’s mouth healthy.

What Happens If You Ignore Your Pet’s Dental Health?

Many pet owners are surprised to learn that by age three, most cats and dogs show signs of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease in dogs and cats is essentially the same as it is in humans. This bacterial infection affects the gums and can cause loss or damage of teeth. It can also damage internal organs if left untreated.

Dental problems are not just cosmetic—they’re painful and potentially dangerous. Pets with untreated dental issues may suffer from chronic pain, bad breath, difficulty eating, or even systemic illness as bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream. Dental care can dramatically improve your pet’s overall wellbeing and quality of life.

How Can You Tell If Your Pet Has a Dental Problem?

Because pets can’t tell us when something hurts, you’ll need to watch for signs of dental disease. Some of the most common include:

• Persistent bad breath
  
• Red or bleeding gums
  
• Yellow or brown tartar on teeth
  
• Drooling or dropping food
  
• Pawing at the mouth or avoiding being touched on the face
  

You may also notice behavioral changes, like a loss of interest in play, grouchiness, or withdrawal. Cats, in particular, may hide signs of discomfort. This makes regular wellness care,   including dental exams, even more important. (Blog link 1)

What’s Involved in a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning?

At Highbury North Pet Hospital, we perform comprehensive dental cleanings under general anaesthesia. This allows us to clean beneath the gum line, where bacteria and tartar build up the most. Tartar buildup is both a sign and a precursor of periodontal disease in dogs and cats, so it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. 

The procedure typically includes a full oral exam, scaling, polishing, and sometimes dental X-rays to evaluate what’s going on below the gumline. If any teeth are damaged or infected, extractions may be necessary to prevent further pain or infection.

How Often Do Pets Need Dental Cleanings?

The frequency depends on the pet’s breed, age, and at-home care routine. Small dog breeds and certain cats are more prone to dental issues and may need annual cleanings. Larger breeds with healthy teeth may only need a cleaning every couple of years.

Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule based on your pet’s individual risk factors. In between professional cleanings, at-home care is essential to maintaining results. 

You can learn more about pet dental care from the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association here.

Can You Brush Your Pet’s Teeth at Home?

Yes—brushing your pet’s teeth regularly is one of the best things you can do to promote good pet oral health. While not every pet tolerates brushing at first, most can be trained with patience and positive reinforcement.

Use pet-safe toothpaste and start slowly. Even brushing two to three times per week can significantly reduce tartar and plaque buildup.

Are There Other Ways to Support Pet Oral Health?

Yes. In addition to brushing, there are other tools to promote good dental hygiene. Dental chews, water additives, and prescription dental diets can all help reduce plaque. However, these should complement—not replace—regular brushing and professional cleanings.

Of course, you don’t want to offer too many treats. Ask your vet for dietary advice. 

What Happens If Dental Disease Is Left Untreated?

Advanced periodontal disease can lead to serious health consequences. The infection can spread from the mouth to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Pets may also experience significant pain, which can impact their appetite, behaviour, and quality of life. Severe infections can even become life-threatening. Any infection so close to the brain is very dangerous.

It’s not just about preventing tooth loss—oral disease affects the whole body. Read more about pet dental care here. 

Make Dental Care Part of Your Pet’s Wellness Plan

Dental care for pets is more than just clean teeth—it’s about ensuring a higher quality of life and preventing serious illness. Visit our Service Page to learn more about the services we offer and the type of pets we see.

Visit Our East London, ON Pet Hospital

Is your furry friend in need of pet dental cleaning? We can help you create a preventative care plan that includes regular dental check-ups and home care. Contact Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario today to book your pet’s next exam.

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice or treatment plan to fit your pet’s needs.