It is important to get your pet’s mouth examined at least once a year; this will normally be done at your pet’s annual vaccination. However, it’s important to bring your pet to your vet sooner if you notice any of the following: bad breath; red, swollen or bleeding gums; tartar buildup; excessive drooling; pawing at the mouth or face; reluctance to eat hard food/treats; chewing on one side only; any swelling of the face; any sign of discomfort (chattering or vocalising when eating); or any behaviour changes. 

A veterinary dentist has advanced training, experience, and specialised equipment to diagnose and treat complex dental and oral conditions beyond the scope of general veterinary dentistry. This is especially important for pets with fractured, discoloured or worn teeth, suspected jaw or root fractures, severe periodontal disease, oral masses, bite issues (malocclusion cases), or cases requiring advanced extractions or procedures like root canals. Using full-mouth dental X-rays and specialised surgical techniques, veterinary dentists provide a higher standard of care and pain management and more predictable outcomes for complex or high-risk cases. 

Veterinary dentists provide comprehensive care using advanced imaging, specialised instruments, and skilled anaesthesia teams, which contributes to higher costs. These investments allow for more precise treatment, improved safety, and better long-term outcomes, often reducing the risk of complications and the need for additional procedures in the future. 

Dental treatment may be staged to improve safety, effectiveness, and comfort, especially for pets needing multiple extractions, complex procedures, or those with health concerns. Staging allows urgent issues to be treated first while reducing anaesthesia risks and supporting better recovery.