DENTAL CARE FOR PETS

A healthy mouth means a Healthier, Happier life

Just like people, our pets rely on good oral health for their overall well-being. Dental disease is extremely common in dogs and cats, with around 80% of pets over the age of three showing signs of gum or tooth issues. Left untreated, these conditions can cause pain, affect appetite, and even lead to serious health complications.

At Karalee Karana Veterinary Surgery, we take dental health seriously — and we’re here to help you stay ahead of potential problems before they impact your pet’s quality of life.

WHAT IS VETERINARY DENTISTRY?

Veterinary dentistry involves the assessment, treatment, and prevention of diseases in the teeth, gums, and mouth.
Regular dental check-ups help us detect issues early, manage pain, and maintain overall health.

We’re currently offering FREE dental consultations, where one of our experienced vets will assess:

  • Plaque and tartar build-up
  • Gum health and signs of infection
  • Retained baby teeth
  • Tooth alignment and jaw positioning
  • Presence of broken, loose, or decaying teeth

Following your pet’s check-up, we’ll provide a personalised estimate for treatment, which may include:

  • Scale and polish
  • Tooth extractions (if needed)
  • IV fluids
  • Pain relief and antibiotic injections
  • Pre-anaesthetic blood tests

SIGNS YOUR PET MAY NEEDS DENTAL CARE

Keep an eye out for any of the following signs — they could indicate your pet is experiencing dental discomfort or disease:

  • Bad breath
  • Reluctance to eat or chew
  • Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Yellow or brown stains on teeth
  • Bloating or discomfort after eating
Sensitivity when their mouth is touched

THE BENEFITS OF DENTAL TREATMENT

A clean, pain-free mouth can make a world of difference. After a dental procedure, many pet owners notice:

  • Increased appetite and energy
  • Fresher breath and a cleaner mouth
  • Reduced pain or sensitivity
  • A happier, more comfortable pet

The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) recommends annual dental checks and treatment as needed. We also encourage pet owners to adopt a preventative approach to reduce the frequency and severity of dental issues.

AT-HOME DENTAL CARE TIPS

To help maintain your pet’s dental health between check-ups, we recommend:

  • Offering dental chews or toys
  • Feeding a dental-specific diet, such as Hills t/d, Royal Canin Dental, or Delicate Care Dental
  • Providing safe, appropriately-sized raw bones (under supervision)
  • Regular brushing with a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste (ask us how!)

POST- DENTAL CARE: WHAT TO EXPECT

After a dental procedure, your pet may have a tender mouth. We recommend:

  • Feeding soft or wet food for 3-5 days
  • Keeping your pet quiet and comfortable while they recover
  • Avoiding chew toys or bones until advised

We’ll also schedule a follow-up dental check to make sure your pet is healing well. If you notice anything unusual — such as reduced appetite, swelling, or discomfort — please contact us straight away.

HOW SEVERE IS YOUR PET'S DENTAL DISEASE

Veterinarians use an internationally recognised grading system (Grades 0-4) to assess the severity of periodontal disease:

We’ll explain your pet’s dental grade during their free consultation and discuss the most appropriate next steps.

BOOK YOUR PET'S FREE DENTAL CHECK TODAY

Your pet’s comfort and health start with a clean, pain-free mouth. Give us a call 07  3282 7888 or book online to arrange your free dental consultation — and let’s keep those tails wagging and whiskers twitching with joy

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