Pet Dental Checks

Dental disease is common in pets, but it can be prevented. Regular dental checks help you stay on top of your pet’s teeth and gum health.

Pet dental care

Dental disease is one of the most common conditions found in pets, and if left untreated it can lead to other serious health problems. Up to 60% of dogs and 80% of cats over the age of two struggle with dental disease, but our pets can’t always let us know when they’re uncomfortable.

Ongoing dental care is key to ensuring your pet’s teeth and gums remain healthy. This includes routine teeth brushing, feeding your pet the right diet and attending regular dental checks.

Key Takeaways

• Pet dental checks are professional examinations of your pet's teeth and gums, recommended every six months to prevent dental disease.
• Dental disease affects up to 60% of dogs and 80% of cats over the age of two, making regular checks important.
• During a dental check, a vet or nurse examines your pet from nose to tail, focusing on signs of fractured teeth, gingivitis, periodontitis and tartar.
• Pets form plaque and tartar on their teeth just like their owners, but cannot brush their own teeth or tell you when they are in pain.
• If your pet is experiencing mouth pain, your vet or nurse may suggest a dental x-ray to plan further treatment.
• Ongoing dental care includes routine teeth brushing, feeding the right diet and attending regular dental checks at your clinic.
• Your Medivet vet or nurse will discuss an ongoing dental hygiene routine with you, including advice on tooth brushing.
• Untreated dental disease can lead to other serious health problems, so early detection through regular checks is key.
• You can register with Medivet to access routine preventative dental checks and wider veterinary care for your pet.

What are dental checks?

Just like their owners, pets form plaque and tartar on their teeth and need to be checked by a professional every six months.

During a dental check, your vet or nurse will give your pet a nose-to-tail health check, with a focus on their mouth and teeth. They will look out for signs of fractured teeth, gingivitis, periodontitis, tartar and any other issues that could lead to dental disease.

If your pet’s experiencing mouth pain, your vet or nurse may also suggest a dental x-ray to plan further treatment.

They’ll also be happy to discuss an ongoing dental hygiene routine with you, including advice on tooth brushing, and answer any questions you may have about your pet’s dental health.