Dental health is one of the most important — and most overlooked — aspects of your pet’s overall well-being and wellness care. Studies have shown that by the time most dogs and cats are three years old, they’re already showing signs of periodontal disease. Left untreated, dental disease doesn’t just cause pain and tooth loss; the bacteria involved can spread through the bloodstream and affect the kidneys, liver, and heart. At Painted Tree Veterinary Hospital, we take your pet’s oral health seriously. Our dental services are designed to prevent problems before they start and to treat existing conditions thoroughly and safely.
Comprehensive Dental Exams and Treatment
Every dental procedure at Painted Tree begins with a comprehensive oral health assessment. Our veterinarians evaluate your pet’s teeth, gums, and oral structures to identify signs of disease, damage, or decay. From there, we develop a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Our dental services include professional cleaning and polishing, dental X-rays to evaluate what’s happening below the gum line, and extractions when a tooth is too damaged or diseased to save. All dental procedures are performed under anesthesia with the same careful monitoring and individualized pain management we apply to every surgical procedure at our hospital.
Safe, Monitored Anesthesia for Every Dental Procedure
All dental procedures require general anesthesia, and at Painted Tree, we hold our dental anesthesia to the same high standards as every surgical procedure. Each patient receives a pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork, an individualized anesthetic plan, IV catheter and fluid support, and continuous monitoring by a dedicated team member throughout the procedure. We use sevoflurane gas anesthesia and active warming systems to keep your pet safe and comfortable from start to finish.
Pain medication is administered before any extraction and sent home when needed, so your pet’s comfort is managed at every stage — not just during the procedure, but through their recovery at home.
Learn more about our approach to anesthesia and surgical safety here.
Signs of Dental Problems in Pets
Pets are good at hiding pain, so it’s important to watch for subtle changes. Common signs that your dog or cat may have a dental issue include bad breath, drooling or dropping food while eating, reduced appetite or reluctance to chew, pawing or rubbing at the mouth, loose, broken, or discolored teeth, bloody saliva, or facial swelling. If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait for your next wellness visit — call us so we can take a look.
Preventative Dental Care
The best dental care starts at home, between professional visits. We recommend annual dental exams for all pets, and we’re happy to show you how to brush your pet’s teeth with pet-friendly toothpaste. Dental chews, toys, and diets designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup can also make a real difference over time. If you’re not sure where to start, ask us during your next visit! Our team can walk you through the options and help you find a routine that works for you and your pet.
To schedule a dental exam or to ask us about your pet’s oral health, call Painted Tree Veterinary Hospital at 555-555-5555.