Quality Pet Dentistry in San Antonio

At North Star Animal Hospital, we know that dental health is connected to overall well-being. We are proud to offer reliable dentistry for pets tailored to their specific needs. Our skilled team utilizes modern tools and years of experience to serve your pets while treating them like family the moment they walk through our doors.

We firmly believe that dental hygiene is just as important for pets as it is for humans. We proudly offer a full array of routine and advanced services, along with guidance for at-home care. If you’re looking for quality pet dentistry in San Antonio, don’t hesitate to contact our practice today to schedule a consultation!

Why Does My Pet Need Regular Dental Care?

According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, a majority of cats and dogs will exhibit the beginning stages of periodontal disease by age three, which is the most common health complication found in all pets. We are proud to offer quality veterinary dentistry designed to cover your pet’s needs and help:

Avoid tooth loss due to periodontal disease
Manage and prevent pain
Maintain healthy and functional teeth
Improve foul breath
Prevent potential damage to the brain, heart, liver, lungs, and kidneys

Common Signs of Dental Disease

When food particles and other foreign objects get trapped within your pet’s teeth, bacteria begin to grow. If left untreated, bacteria can lead to gum disease, potentially causing serious health issues like cardiac complications, kidney and liver infection, or stroke. It can be difficult to determine on your own if your pet suffers from a dental-related illness or infection. Here are some common signs and symptoms that could indicate the presence of dental disease:

Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Excessive drooling
Terrible breath
Noticeable changes in eating or chewing habits
Pawing at the face
Loose or falling out teeth
Depression or lethargy

Our Comprehensive Dental Services

We begin our teeth cleanings by performing a thorough oral exam, searching for any abnormalities such as signs of tooth decay or gum disease. Next, we will perform teeth cleaning for your pet to clear plaque and tartar buildup, giving them a fresh and healthier oral condition. Finally, if deemed necessary, we offer more involved dental procedures such as extracting problem teeth, treating abscesses, or performing surgery.

Our team believes prevention is key to ideal oral health. We offer tailor-made dietary counseling after performing an initial exam. Based on our findings, we will develop a detailed nutritional profile for your pet that shows how their nutrition contributes to good oral health. Our knowledgeable veterinarians can also provide clear instructions on how to properly care for your pet’s teeth at home, such as regular brushing as well as providing plenty of fresh water and dental chews. We will carefully consider breed, weight, age, and lifestyle in our recommendations.

Pet Dentistry FAQ

We know you’re a caring pet parent, and it’s natural to have questions about your pet’s dental health. Our friendly team is happy to provide answers and address your concerns upon arrival at our practice. Some frequently asked questions regarding pet dentistry include:

What is periodontal disease?

Periodontitis is a common and fairly preventable infection. If left undiagnosed and untreated, it could damage the gums and jawbones. It generally occurs when tartar and plaque have accumulated on the teeth, where bacteria grow and could potentially seep into the bloodstream.

How often should I bring my pet in for dental care?

It’s widely accepted and recommended that your cats and dogs receive an examination and thorough pet teeth cleaning at least once per year. Some pets require more frequent professional dental care if they suffer from severe tartar and plaque buildup or if their oral health maintenance is lacking.

Can I do anything about my pet’s bad breath?

Bad breath may signify oral health issues. If your pet’s breath is particularly bad, we recommend scheduling a prompt checkup and cleaning. However, regardless of checkups and strict at-home regiments, it’s unlikely your pet’s breath will ever smell as fresh as your own.

Trusted Veterinary Dentistry in San Antonio

At North Star Animal Hospital, we believe prevention is key to good oral health. Our veterinary team knows how a comprehensive oral evaluation and personalized services can do wonders for keeping your pet healthier, more comfortable, and free from developing conditions. We are backed by modern tools and our excellent attention to detail, providing comprehensive dentistry that will freshen their oral condition and help keep them healthy for the approaching year.

If you’re looking for reliable pet dentistry in San Antonio, we have you covered. Contact our practice today to receive a consultation or learn more about our pet teeth cleanings!