Dental Care

Dental Care

Regular veterinary dental check-ups at Crestview Veterinary Hospital, combined with good dental hygiene at home, can increase your pet’s health, vitality, and well-being, and help ensure your pet leads the best life possible.

If left untreated, dental disease can not only be painful and inhibit proper nutrition, but it can also lead to serious systemic issues that may threaten your pet’s overall health before symptoms are noticeable. For these reasons, we strongly consider dental care an important piece of your dog’s or cat’s preventive healthcare program.

At Crestview Veterinary Hospital, a thorough cleaning includes the removal of plaque and tartar and the evaluation of all teeth and tissue. We use anesthesia to keep your pet free of discomfort. Your pet’s dental appointment includes:

  • Oral examinations under anesthesia
  • Diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease
  • X-rays
  • Supra and subgingival scaling
  • Tooth extractions
  • Polishing
  • Irrigation
  • Fluoride application

We will discuss any issues we find with you, such as evidence of gum or tooth erosion, gingivitis or excessive plaque buildup, and offer treatment options for your pet. We are experienced dental practitioners and can recommend several dental procedures and oral surgeries.

At-Home Dental Care

In between hospital visits, check your pet’s teeth regularly for signs of problems. Brushing your pet’s teeth is the single most important procedure you can do to maintain good oral health. If performed regularly, brushing dramatically decreases the incidence of gingivitis and can increase the interval between teeth-cleaning appointments. If you are unsure of how to brush your pet’s teeth, please ask a staff member for instructions.

Symptoms of dental disease

  • Bad breath—one of the first signs of dental disease
  • A yellowish-brown crust of plaque on the teeth near the gumline
  • Red and swollen gums
  • Pain or bleeding when your pet eats or when the mouth or gums are touched
  • Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
  • Loose or missing teeth

Don’t let your pet suffer from oral discomfort. If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, contact us at (828) 659-2060 to make an appointment or request a visit online.