Dental health

Dental care that protects more than teeth

By age three, most dogs and cats already have some dental disease - and it's a leading cause of pain and infection. A proper cleaning does far more than freshen breath; it protects your pet's whole-body health.

Veterinary team performing a procedure on a dog in the treatment room
What's included

A real cleaning, not just a polish

Meaningful dental care happens below the gumline, which is why it's done under safe, monitored anesthesia.

  • Full oral examA tooth-by-tooth look for fractures, resorptive lesions, loose teeth and painful spots.
  • Dental x-raysMost dental disease hides under the gumline; radiographs show us what the eye can't see.
  • Scaling & polishingComplete removal of tartar and plaque above and below the gumline, then a smooth polish.
  • Extractions when neededDiseased or painful teeth are removed gently, with pain control and aftercare built in.
  • Safe, monitored anesthesiaContinuous monitoring keeps your pet safe and completely still for a thorough job.
  • Home-care guidancePractical advice on brushing, diets and chews to stretch the time between cleanings.
Why it matters

Dental pain is easy to miss - and easy to prevent

Pets rarely stop eating because of a sore mouth; they simply learn to live with it. Untreated dental disease can lead to abscesses, tooth loss, and bacteria that strain the heart, liver and kidneys.

Regular cleanings and a look under the gumline catch these problems while they're small - keeping your pet comfortable and heading off bigger, costlier treatment later.

Chappelle veterinary staff treating a patient in the treatment area
Related care

Care that often goes hand in hand

Good to know

Pet dentistry FAQ

The questions Fort Collins pet owners ask us most about dental care.

Why does a dental cleaning need anesthesia?
A thorough cleaning below the gumline, dental x-rays, and any extractions simply can't be done safely or completely on an awake pet. Anesthesia lets us do a proper job while keeping your pet pain-free and still - and we monitor them closely the whole time.
How do I know if my pet has dental disease?
Bad breath is the most common sign, along with yellow or brown tartar, red gums, drooling, or reluctance to chew on one side. But much of it hides below the gumline, which is why a professional exam and x-rays matter.
How often does my pet need a dental cleaning?
It varies by pet. Some need a cleaning every year; others go longer with good home care. We'll assess your pet's mouth at each wellness visit and recommend a schedule that fits them.
Can I prevent dental disease at home?
Yes - daily tooth brushing is the gold standard, and dental diets, water additives and vet-approved chews all help. We're happy to show you what works for your pet.

Book a dental check for your pet

Not sure whether your pet's mouth needs attention? A quick dental check gives you a clear answer. Call us to schedule.