We often think of dental care as something that only applies to people, but for pets, it’s just as important, maybe even more. At Upper Village Veterinary Hospital in Toronto, we see every day how healthy teeth and gums can transform a pet’s overall well-being. Fresh breath is just the start.
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues we treat in dogs and cats. It can cause pain, eating difficulties, and affect organs like the heart and kidneys if bacteria from the mouth enter the bloodstream. The good news? With routine care and professional cleanings, most dental problems can be prevented.
How We Approach Pet Dental Services
Our pet dental services in Toronto focus on both prevention and gentle treatment. During your pet’s dental visit, we:
- Perform a full oral exam and take dental x-rays to see what’s happening below the gumline.
- Scale and polish the teeth to remove plaque and tartar buildup.
- Check for hidden issues like tooth resorption, infection, or gum disease.
- Create a personalized home care plan to help keep your pet’s mouth healthy between visits.
Every procedure is done with your pet’s comfort and safety in mind. We use advanced anesthesia monitoring and pain control protocols to ensure each dental cleaning is as low-stress and comfortable as possible.
Why Brushing Alone Isn’t Enough
Brushing your pet’s teeth at home is a great start, but even the most dedicated pet parents can’t reach every surface or remove hardened tartar below the gumline. That’s why professional cleanings are such an important part of preventive care. Think of them as a deeper reset, the same way you visit your own dentist for a full cleaning.
Our veterinarians, including Dr. Steven Davidson, Dr. Rachael Mozes, and Dr. Andrea Smith, can show you how to introduce toothbrushing at home and recommend safe dental chews, diets, or rinses that support ongoing oral health.
What to Avoid
Perhaps one of the most important things to know about pet dental care is what not to do. You may see “anesthesia-free dental cleanings” offered at some groomers or daycare facilities, but these are not performed by veterinary professionals. While they may seem like a safer or more affordable option, they can actually cause harm, scraping the tooth surface, leading to micro-damage, and completely missing disease below the gumline. These procedures don’t address the root cause of dental disease and can make things worse in the long run. Don’t do it!
When to Book a Dental Exam
If your pet has bad breath, drooling, difficulty chewing, or yellow or brown buildup on their teeth, it may be time for a dental check. Even if they seem fine, routine dental exams help us catch small problems early before they cause pain or tooth loss.
To book a dental consultation or professional cleaning, call Upper Village Veterinary Hospital at (647) 560-9276 or visit https://www.uppervillagevet.com/request-an-appointment/. Our team provides compassionate, comprehensive animal dentistry in Toronto to keep your pet happy and healthy.
