Pet Dentistry at Wellshire Animal Hospital in Denver, CO

Signs Your Pet May Need Dental Care

Pets rarely show visible signs of oral pain, so it’s important to monitor them for changes in behavior or appetite. If you notice any of the following symptoms, schedule an evaluation with a pet dentist:

• Bad breath
• Drooling more than usual
• Difficulty chewing or reluctance to eat
• Swelling around the mouth or jaw
• Bleeding gums or visible tartar
• Pawing at the face or mouth
• Loose, missing, or discolored teeth

Early evaluation can prevent more serious complications and reduce the need for extensive treatment later on.

What to Expect from a Pet Teeth Cleaning

We recommend that pets have a dental exam at least once per year. During your pet’s dental cleaning, our team will:

• Perform a full oral examination
• Take full-mouth dental X-rays
• Clean above and below the gum line using ultrasonic and hand scaling tools
• Polish each tooth to smooth the surface and reduce future plaque buildup
• Chart dental findings in your pet’s medical record

Pet teeth cleaning at our hospital is always performed under general anesthesia. This ensures we can thoroughly clean below the gum line, minimize discomfort, and protect your pet’s airway during the procedure.

Safety and Comfort During Dental Procedures

Anesthesia allows us to complete a safe and effective cleaning while minimizing stress and movement. We closely monitor your pet’s vital signs throughout the procedure. Pets also receive an endotracheal tube to protect their airway from water and bacteria during cleaning.

We do not offer or recommend anesthesia-free dental cleanings, as they cannot safely or effectively address plaque and tartar below the gum line.

Tooth Extractions and Oral Surgery

If dental X-rays or exams reveal diseased or damaged teeth, your veterinarian may recommend extractions. Before any tooth is removed, a local anesthetic is applied to reduce discomfort. Anti-inflammatory and pain medications are provided before your pet goes home, along with additional prescriptions for recovery.

Key points about extractions:

• Soft food is recommended for 10–14 days after surgery
• Avoid toys or treats that require chewing
• A follow-up exam is scheduled within 10–14 days to monitor healing.
• Antibiotics may be prescribed if necessary, depending on the case

Preventive Pet Dental Care at Home

In addition to in-clinic care, we encourage at-home dental hygiene, including:

• Daily or regular tooth brushing
• Dental chews and approved oral care products
• Routine exams to monitor oral health between cleanings

Ongoing dental care helps minimize the need for future procedures and keeps your pet feeling their best.

Looking for a Dog Dentist or Cat Dentist in Denver, CO?

If your pet shows signs of dental disease or hasn’t had a recent exam, schedule a visit today. Our team at Wellshire Animal Hospital provides professional pet dentistry and pet teeth cleaning services to help your dog or cat maintain a healthy, pain-free mouth. Contact us to book an appointment or learn more about dental care options for your pet.