Dental Care for Dogs and Cats
Dental health is a big part of your pet’s overall wellbeing. Just like us, dogs and cats can develop plaque, gum disease and tooth pain if their teeth aren’t properly cared for.
By the age of three, most pets already have some level of dental disease. It often starts with plaque — a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth every day. If it isn’t removed, that plaque hardens into tartar (also called calculus). This solid build-up traps even more bacteria along the gum line and below it.
As bacteria sit under the gums, they cause inflammation and infection. In more advanced cases, this can lead to painful gum disease, loose teeth and pockets of infection that pets rarely show obvious signs of at home. Dental disease is not just about bad breath — it’s an ongoing bacterial infection in the mouth.
During a dental procedure at Flemington Veterinary Hospital, your pet is placed under general anaesthesia so we can safely perform a thorough scale and polish above and below the gum line. We always take full-mouth dental X-rays, because most dental disease hides under the gums where it cannot be seen with the naked eye. X-rays allow us to assess the roots of the teeth and detect hidden infection or damage, ensuring nothing is missed.
Good dental care doesn’t stop at the clinic. Brushing at home, dental chews and regular check-ups all help reduce plaque and protect your pet’s long-term health. Healthy teeth mean better comfort, fresher breath and fewer hidden infections.
Let’s Check Their Smile
If you’ve noticed bad breath or it’s been a while since your pet’s last dental check, book an appointment with our team and let’s keep their smile healthy.
