Daily brushing is the gold standard for maintaining your pet’s dental health. Missing the occasional day isn’t a concern, but brushing less than every other day has been shown to be no more effective than not brushing at all. Consistency really does make a difference!

General anaesthesia allows your vet to thoroughly examine and treat all areas of your pet’s mouth - something that simply isn’t possible while they’re awake. The breathing tube used during the procedure also protects the lungs from debris released during cleaning.

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons advises against anaesthesia-free dental procedures in cats and dogs, as they do not meet the standards for health and welfare.

The most common sign is bad breath. You might also notice pawing at the mouth, jaw chattering or chewing on one side. However, pets are expert at hiding pain, so even severe dental disease may show no obvious signs.

That’s why regular dental check-ups with a vet who has a special interest in dentistry are so important. Many owners tell us their pet seems years younger after treatment- highlighting just how much dental disease can affect quality of life.

Professional cleaning removes tartar (calculus) that builds up on the teeth over time. It is also the perfect opportunity to assess the overall health of your pet’s teeth and gums and address any issues early.

However, professional cleaning is not a substitute for daily brushing because plaque can begin to build up again within hours of the procedure. The frequency of professional cleaning can vary between breeds and how well brushing is tolerated at home. We understand that some pets are more cooperative than others!

Dental disease can cause significant pain and even affect organs like the heart, kidneys and liver. If your vet recommends a dental procedure under anaesthesia it is because the benefits outweigh the risks.

In rare cases where anaesthesia poses a higher risk, your vet will discuss this with you and offer alternative options to keep your pet as comfortable as possible.

Yes - dental x-rays are essential. They allow us to see below the gum line and detect issues in the roots and jaw bone that would otherwise go unnoticed.

A broken tooth should always be assessed by a vet. The exposed root canal is extremely sensitive and prone to infection. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve sealing the tooth, extracting it, or performing root canal therapy.