Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery

Our team of veterinarians at Monroe Veterinary Clinic offers a range of preventive and restorative pet dental health care services for cats and dogs in Monroe.

Cat & Dog Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Similar to your annual checkup at the dentist, your cat or dog should see us for a dental exam once a year at the minimum. Pets that are at a higher risk of developing dental problems might have to see us more regularly. 

Monroe Veterinary Clinic is able to evaluate, diagnose and treat dental health conditions in both dogs and cats.

• Symptoms

  If you see your pet displaying any of the following symptoms, you need to take them in for a dental checkup.

  • Discolored teeth 
  • Tartar buildup
  • Bad breath 
  • Pain or swelling in or around the mouth
  • Extra teeth or retained baby teeth
  • Bleeding from the mouth
  • Reduced appetite or refusal to eat
  • Abnormal chewing, drooling, or dropping food from the mouth
  • Lose and/or broken teeth

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

  An in-depth pre-anesthetic physical assessment will be conducted for your pet prior to their dental exam. 

  We will conduct a blood test and urine analysis to make sure it's safe for your pet to undergo anesthesia. Additional diagnostics might be performed such as chest radiographs or an ECG. 

  When your pet is under anesthesia, we will implement a complete oral examination (tooth by tooth) and charting. 

• Treatment

  Next, we clean and polish their teeth (including under the gum line) and take X-rays.

  The last step is to apply a dental sealant to keep plaque from attaching to the enamel. If we discover, advanced periodontal disease, your veterinarian will develop a treatment plan and discuss it with you. 

• Prevention

  We recommend scheduling a follow-up examination two weeks after the initial assessment and treatment appointment. 

  At this visit, we'll discuss implementing at-home teeth brushing. We may also recommend products that could help improve your cat or dog's oral health. 

FAQs About Pet Dental Care

Below we have provided the answers to the questions most frequently asked by our clients about cat and dog dental care.

• Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?

  Just like humans, cats and dogs can develop periodontal disease or tooth decay as a result of poor oral health. 

  When our pets eat, plaque sticks to their teeth and can build up into tartar if it isn't brushed away regularly. 

  This can cause infections in the mouth, periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even loose or missing teeth. This makes routine dental care an essential part of preventing pain or gum disease.

• How can I tell if my pet has oral hygiene issues?

  Did you know your pet's behavior can be a sign of oral health problems? If your cat or dog is suffering from a dental problem, they may excessively drool  (and the drool may contain pus or blood), or you might see them pawing at their mouth or teeth. They could also yawn excessively, grind their teeth, or stop sufficiently grooming.

  Other signs of oral health problems include tooth discoloration, bad breath, and swollen gums. Some pets might even experience pain that keeps them from eating. Learn more about symptoms to the left under Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams. 

• What long-term problems can poor oral health potentially cause in my pet?

  Other than causing dental conditions such as cavities, bad breath, and periodontal disease, oral health issues can lead to disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas of your pet's body. 

  Cysts or tumors can develop. Your pet might also not feel well in general (if you have ever had a toothache, you know how it can impact your mood!). Also, diseases related to oral health problems can shorten your pet's lifespan and cause them a lot of pain. 

  This makes regular dental care an important part of your cat or dog's physical health and wellbeing. 

• What happens during my pet's teeth cleaning appointment?

  During your pet’s regular oral exam, the vet will assess their mouth and look for signs of any oral health conditions or symptoms that require treatment.

  The vet will clean tartar and other debris from your cat's or dog's teeth. If cavities, gingivitis, or other conditions need to be addressed, the vet will explain these to you and provide advice on the steps you should take. 

  Occasionally, pets require surgery to treat serious conditions. Your pet will be provided with anesthesia before their dental procedure to make sure they are comfortable and don't feel any pain. Special care will be required post-surgery. 

  If you see any of these symptoms, book a dental appointment with your veterinarian. 

• What should I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth clean between dental appointments?

  At home, you should brush your pet's teeth on a regular basis and give them dental chew toys. These will help eliminate plaque. 

  Do not allow them to chew on things that will damage their teeth, such as bones, toys, or objects that are too hard. Always contact your vet with any questions or concerns regarding your pet's oral health.