Dental Care

Dentistry and oral care for our pets is one of the fastest-growing areas of pet health care. Why? Because pets, like people, benefit from regular dental check-ups and cleanings. We are becoming increasingly aware of the number of serious health risks and diseases that can develop as a direct consequence of untreated dental disease.

A vet examining the teeth of a small, shaggy dog, holding the dog's muzzle gently to inspect its oral health in a clinic setting.

Regular professional cleaning is important to maintaining your pet’s teeth. Life expectancy has been shown to increase, 3-5 years, with routine dental cleaning. We at SVC believe in the concept of preventive care. Since early detection and treatment of periodontal disease can extend pets lives by 2 years, we take dental exams very seriously.

Most often a professional cleaning is recommended and is performed under anesthesia. This helps us to do a comprehensive oral hygiene assessment and treatment plan. Oral masses and tumors can also be detected at this time. We provide a safe, competent surgery environment and utilize the latest in technology of dental and surgical monitoring equipment. We first chart every tooth and probe them for pockets or abnormalities. SVC has a state-of-the-art digital dental radiographic machine to aid in the diagnosis of periodontal disease and under-the-gum abnormalities not detectable by an oral exam. The machine produces instant images of the skull region in extreme detail. It can detect damage to tooth roots, expose periodontal diseases and pocketing, uncover nasal tumors, locate foreign bodies, expose oral cancers and other masses, identify hard or soft palate abnormalities, and locate non-erupted teeth.

After the initial evaluation and imaging (as needed), we use a modern and safe combination of ultrasonic and hand-scaling techniques to ensure cleaning above and below the gum line. A fluoride- infused polish is then applied to create a smooth, lustrous tooth surface that is more resistant to tarter build-up. A barrier sealant is then applied to the gum line to slow plaque and tarter accumulation.

When a tooth problem is encountered that may require more advanced treatment, we offer a variety of treatment options. Interceptive dental techniques, like root planing or perioceutic treatments such as doxirobe (a time-released antibiotic gel) can be employed to try and save certain teeth. If the teeth cannot be salvaged, we extract them using our safe and efficient high-speed dental drill and closure of the socket with bacteria-resistant suture material. We perform standard pre- and post-extractional x-ray films to ensure complete removal and can even place bone grafting material to speed healing. Be assured that pain prevention is foremost in our thoughts, and a multimodal approach for pain control is utilized throughout the procedure, into the recovery phase, and beyond.

Your pet is our pet while in our care, and the utmost concern for their comfort and safety is employed by our doctors and staff. We also work closely with several Board Certified dentists in our area for more complex procedure referrals including endodontics and root canals.

After the initial evaluation and imaging (as needed), we use a modern and safe combination of ultrasonic and hand-scaling techniques to ensure cleaning above and below the gum line. A fluoride- infused polish is then applied to create a smooth, lustrous tooth surface that is more resistant to tarter build-up. A barrier sealant is then applied to the gum line to slow plaque and tarter accumulation.

When a tooth problem is encountered that may require more advanced treatment, we offer a variety of treatment options. Interceptive dental techniques, like root planing or perioceutic treatments such as doxirobe (a time-released antibiotic gel) can be employed to try and save certain teeth. If the teeth cannot be salvaged, we extract them using our safe and efficient high-speed dental drill and closure of the socket with bacteria-resistant suture material. We perform standard pre- and post-extractional x-ray films to ensure complete removal and can even place bone grafting material to speed healing. Be assured that pain prevention is foremost in our thoughts, and a multimodal approach for pain control is utilized throughout the procedure, into the recovery phase, and beyond.

Your pet is our pet while in our care, and the utmost concern for their comfort and safety is employed by our doctors and staff. We also work closely with several Board Certified dentists in our area for more complex procedure referrals including endodontics and root canals.

Dental Care FAQs

How often do pets need their teeth professionally cleaned?

On average, most dogs only need it every 1 to 2 years, but some small breeds require cleanings every 6 months.

How do I brush my dog's teeth?

How can I extend the time interval between cleanings?

Daily brushing is effective but requires a commitment. We sell chicken-flavored tooth paste and finger brushes for this purpose. SVC also offers a complete line of home oral care products including CET chews, water additives, and oral rinses to aid in preventing tarter accumulation and “dog breath”.

Did you know that…

Pets can develop oral disease as early as 6 months of age.
By age three, 80% of pets have periodontal disease.
Fractured or damaged teeth can lead to infections of the gums and organ systems.
Retained baby teeth can crowd permanent ones, trapping bacteria and leading to tooth loss.
Advancing periodontal disease poses health risks such as an increased chance of heart, liver, and kidney disease as well as complications from diabetes (increased insulin resistance).