Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Surgery
Complete Dental Care for Dogs & Cats in Arnprior
Did you know dental disease is one of the most common – and most overlooked – health issues in our furry companions?
Just like us, dogs and cats need regular dental care for their mouths to stay healthy. Without it, plaque and tartar can lead to painful tooth decay, gum disease, tooth loss, and even problems with the heart, liver, or kidneys.
At Arnprior Animal Hospital, we believe your pet deserves a healthy mouth and a happy life. Our team provides professional dental cleanings and exams to catch issues early before they cause pain or impact your pet’s overall health.
We’ll also show you simple ways to care for your pet’s teeth at home so you can help keep their teeth clean between appointments, prolonging the results.
Dental Surgery for Dogs & Cats in the Ottawa Valley
At Arnprior Animal Hospital, our veterinarians can perform a range of dental surgeries for cats and dogs when necessary. This includes tooth extractions and treatment for periodontal disease.
Teeth Cleaning & Examinations
Regular dental checkups are a vital part of your companion's overall health. Catching dental problems early means we can prevent pain, tooth loss, or more serious issues like infections or gum disease, before they start to affect your pet’s well-being.
At Arnprior Animal Hospital, we take a thorough approach to pet dental care. Here’s what you can expect during a dental appointment:
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Pre-Anesthetic Assessment
A thorough pre-anesthetic physical assessment will be completed for your pet before the dental procedure.
We will test your pet's blood to ensure it's safe for them to undergo anesthesia. Additional diagnostics, such as chest radiographs, may also be conducted.
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Administering Anesthesia
Anesthesia is administered to all patients undergoing dental procedures. This allows us to do a thorough examination and cleaning as well as capturing any required X-rays safely and efficiently without undue stress on the pet.
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Oral Examination & Cleaning
Once your pet is under anesthesia, we will conduct a complete, tooth-by-tooth oral examination and charting.
Their teeth will be cleaned and polished (including under the gum line).
If any oral health problems are discovered, the veterinarian will develop a custom treatment plan, which may include dental surgery, and discuss it with you.
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Follow-up Exam & Home Care
Your veterinarian may recommend that a follow-up examination be scheduled two weeks after the initial appointment.
During this visit, we will address any persistent issues and offer guidance for at-home care for your pet's teeth.
FAQs About Pet Dental Care
To learn more about dental care for your cat or dog, read through our answers to these frequently asked questions from our clients.
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Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?
Like us, dogs and cats can develop periodontal disease or tooth decay as a consequence of poor oral health. When dogs and cats eat, plaque sticks to their teeth and can build up into tartar if not cleaned away regularly.
Annual veterinary dental care can help prevent conditions such as periodontal disease, tooth decay, and even loose or missing teeth.
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How often does my pets need their teeth cleaned?
We recommend that most dogs and cats have a dental checkup once a year. Pets that are more prone to dental problems than others may require more frequent appointments.
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How can I tell if my pet has oral hygiene issues?
Pets experiencing dental problems may show one or more of the following signs: excessive drooling (may contain pus or blood), pawing at their mouth or teeth, repeated yawning, chattering, reduced grooming, weight loss, or dropping food from their mouth while eating.
Other signs of oral health problems include bad breath, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration. Some pets may even stop eating.
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What long-term problems can poor oral health potentially cause in my pet?
As well as causing problems such as cavities, bad breath and periodontal disease, oral health problems may lead to disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas throughout your pet's body.
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What should I do at home to keep my pet’s teeth clean between dental appointments?
Brushing your pet's teeth regularly and providing dental chew toys can help control the buildup of plaque. Speak to your veterinarian to learn more about caring for your dog or cat's teeth between veterinary appointments.
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Why does my pet require anesthesia for their dental appointment?
Cats and dogs are unable to understand what is going on during dental procedures, and will often react by by struggling or biting. Using anesthesia puts less stress on pets and allows us to examine their mouth safely.
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What dental issues may require dental surgery as treatment?
Dental health issues which may require surgery include:
- Cracked or Broken Teeth
- Tooth Decay
- Severe Gum Disease (Periodontitis)
- Jaw Fractures
- Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorder
- Luxation
- Feline Stomatitis.
*Please note that in severe cases, we may refer your pet to a specialist.
New Patients Welcome
For over 40 years, our team at Arnprior Animal Hospital has been helping dogs and cats from across the Ottawa Valley live their best lives. Get in touch today to book your pet's first appointment.