Veterinary Dentistry & Dental Care in Jesup, GA

Pet Teeth Cleaning & Exams

Similar to your annual visit with the dentist, your dog or cat should see us for a dental examination at least once each year. Pets who are more susceptible to dental problems than others might need to come in more often. 

Our team at Wolfe Animal Hospital focuses on preventive pet dental care, offering cleanings, brushing, shining and fluoride application, performed by our veterinary assistants. 

• Symptoms

  If you notice any of these signs or symptoms in your pet, it's time to schedule a dental checkup.

  • Discolored teeth 
  • Bad breath 
  • Tartar buildup

  Contact Us to Book a Dental Checkup
• Assessment

  Patients we have never seen before and/or patients we have not previously treated for dental issues in general will require a routine exam prior to their dental cleaning.

  A thorough pre-anesthetic physical assessment will be completed for your pet before the dental exam. 

  We will take blood and urine analyses to ensure it's safe for your pet to undergo anesthesia. Additional diagnostics, such as chest radiographs or an ECG may also be conducted. 

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

• Cleaning

  Next, the teeth are cleaned and polished (including under the gum line). We then apply a fluoride treatment to each tooth. 

  The final step is to apply a dental sealant to prevent plaque from attaching to the enamel. 

• Education 

  During this visit, we will discuss implementing teeth brushing at home. We can also recommend products that can help improve your pet's oral health. 

FAQs About Pet Dental Care

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from clients about pet dental care. 

• Why do pets need their teeth cleaned?

  As a consequence of poor oral health, our pets may develop tooth decay or periodontal disease. 

  Just like with their humans, plaque can stick to animals' teeth when they eat and accumulate into tartar if not regularly brushed away. 

  This can cause infections in the mouth, tooth decay, gum disease, and even loose or missing teeth. This is why regular dental care is critical to preventing pain or disease in the gums.

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

  If your pet is suffering from early signs of dental issues, you may notice their teeth are discolored, or perhaps they have bad breath or plaque buildup. Severe bad breath should not be dismissed as normal for a dog and should be treated and prevented with a regular dental cleaning. 

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

  Besides causing problems ranging from cavities and bad breath to severe periodontal disease, oral health issues and conditions can lead to disease in the liver, kidney, heart, and other areas throughout your pet's body. 

  Cysts or tumors may develop. Your pet may also not feel well in general (if you've ever had a toothache, you know how it can affect your mood!). In addition, diseases related to oral health conditions can shorten the lifespan of your pet and cause significant pain. 

  This is why regular dental care is so essential to animals' physical health and wellbeing. 

• What happens during a pet tooth cleaning appointment?

  During your pet’s regular oral exam, the vet will examine his or her mouth and look for oral health conditions or any symptoms needing 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 which actions you should take. 

  If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a dental appointment with us. 

• 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 regularly 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.