Signs that deserve attention
- Persistent bad breath
- Yellow-brown tartar or red, bleeding gums
- Dropping food, chewing on one side or preferring softer food
- Pawing at the mouth, facial swelling or excessive drooling
- Loose or broken teeth
- Reduced appetite, irritability or withdrawal
Why an examination matters
The visible crown is only part of each tooth. Disease may extend below the gumline, where it cannot be evaluated fully in an awake pet. During an oral assessment, Dr. Kim considers the gums, teeth, jaw, pain and overall health before recommending next steps.
What professional dental care may include
When indicated, dental care may involve pre-anesthetic testing, anesthesia, monitoring, cleaning above and below the gumline, polishing and a tooth-by-tooth evaluation. Dental radiographs or extractions may be recommended based on findings and available services.
Home care helps prevent future buildup, but it cannot remove hardened tartar or repair a painful tooth. Avoid human toothpaste, which is not intended to be swallowed by pets.
When is it urgent?
Call promptly for facial swelling, bleeding, sudden refusal to eat, a fractured tooth or obvious pain. Routine dental discussions can be included in a wellness examination.