All Creatures Great & Small Veterinary Hospital

Dentistry & Dental Cleanings

Veterinary Dentistry

Dentistry & Dental Cleanings

Dental disease is the most common health problem in pets — and one of the most preventable. Professional cleanings and regular oral exams protect your pet's teeth, gums, and overall health.

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Why Dental Health Matters for Pets

By age 3, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of periodontal disease. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and damage the heart, kidneys, and liver. Bad breath is often the first sign owners notice — but by then, significant disease may already be present. Regular professional cleanings and home dental care are the most effective ways to prevent this.

What's Included in a Professional Dental Cleaning

  • Pre-anesthetic physical exam and bloodwork review
  • General anesthesia for safe, thorough cleaning
  • Full-mouth dental radiographs (X-rays) to evaluate roots and bone
  • Ultrasonic scaling to remove tartar above and below the gumline
  • Polishing to smooth enamel and slow future tartar buildup
  • Periodontal probing to assess gum pocket depth
  • Tooth extractions if necessary (discussed with owner beforehand)
  • Oral rinse and fluoride treatment
  • Home care recommendations and follow-up plan

Dental Care for Exotic Pets

Dental disease is also common in exotic species. Rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats have continuously growing teeth that can develop malocclusion (misalignment), causing pain and difficulty eating. Teeth trimmings for rodents and lagomorphs may also be performed as needed. Ferrets are prone to tartar buildup and tooth fractures. Dr. Davis has specialized training in exotic dental care and can assess and treat dental problems in a wide range of species.

Home Dental Care Between Cleanings

  • Daily tooth brushing with pet-safe toothpaste
  • Dental chews and treats approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)
  • Water additives that reduce bacterial load
  • Dental diets formulated to reduce plaque
  • Regular oral inspections at home to catch changes early

Frequently Asked Questions

How often does my pet need a professional dental cleaning?
Most dogs and cats benefit from a professional cleaning once a year. Some pets with a predisposition to dental disease (small breeds, flat-faced breeds, certain exotic species) may need cleanings more frequently. Dr. Davis will assess your pet's oral health at each exam and recommend a cleaning schedule.
Is anesthesia safe for dental cleanings?
Yes. Modern anesthesia protocols are very safe, and anesthesia is necessary to perform a thorough, pain-free cleaning. Without anesthesia, it's impossible to clean below the gumline, take dental X-rays, or safely extract diseased teeth. We perform pre-anesthetic bloodwork and monitoring throughout the procedure.
My pet's breath is bad — is that normal?
Mild breath odor can be normal, but strong or persistent bad breath (halitosis) is usually a sign of dental disease, oral infection, or sometimes systemic illness. It should always be evaluated by a veterinarian.
Do rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats need dental care?
Yes — dental problems are actually one of the most common health issues in rabbits, guinea pigs, and rats. Their teeth grow continuously throughout their lives and can develop painful malocclusion if not properly worn down. Dr. Davis can examine and treat dental problems in these species. Teeth trimmings needed for some rodents and lagomorphs may also be performed as needed.
What signs of dental disease should I watch for at home?
Watch for: bad breath, drooling, pawing at the mouth, difficulty eating or dropping food, bleeding gums, loose or discolored teeth, facial swelling, or reluctance to chew on toys. Any of these warrants a dental exam.

Ready to book an appointment?

Our team at All Creatures Great & Small Veterinary Hospital in San Antonio is here to help. Call or text us today.

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