Pet Dental Care in Vancouver

Dental health directly affects your pet's overall wellbeing. Periodontal disease is one of the most common conditions in dogs and cats, often causing pain, difficulty eating, and secondary organ damage if left unaddressed. Atlas Animal Hospital provides comprehensive dental care for pets in Vancouver, including cleanings, extractions, dental imaging, and oral health assessments, all available 24/7 at our 24/7 Fraser Street facility, serving all of Metro Vancouver. Whether your pet needs a routine cleaning or emergency dental care for a broken tooth, our team is equipped to provide the full spectrum of dental services with the expertise your pet deserves.

Dental Cleaning for Dogs and Cats

Professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing cannot reach, especially below the gumline where periodontal disease begins. Our cleanings are performed under general anesthesia with full patient monitoring, allowing thorough cleaning, inspection, and charting of every tooth. We recommend annual dental cleanings for most adult pets, with more frequent visits for breeds prone to dental disease. Breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and Greyhounds are particularly susceptible to periodontal disease and may require dental cleanings as often as every six months. Our team creates a dental care schedule based on your pet's individual risk profile and oral health history.

Tooth Extractions

When a tooth is severely decayed, fractured, or infected, extraction may be the best option to relieve pain and prevent the spread of infection. Our veterinarians perform extractions using nerve block protocols for optimal pain control, and we provide detailed aftercare guidance to support a smooth recovery. Most pets eat comfortably within a day or two following extraction. We follow up with each patient to ensure healing is progressing well, and we discuss long-term strategies to prevent recurrence of infection or decay in remaining teeth.

Dental X-Rays

Many dental problems exist below the gumline where they are invisible during a visual exam. Dental radiography reveals tooth root infections, bone loss, retained roots, and other hidden conditions. We take dental X-rays as part of comprehensive dental assessments, ensuring no underlying issues are missed during your pet's dental visit. We recommend dental radiography for all pets over three years of age as part of their annual dental assessment, as many significant dental conditions produce no visible symptoms above the gumline.

Scaling and Polishing

Scaling removes hardened tartar deposits from tooth surfaces, while polishing smooths the enamel to reduce future plaque accumulation. These steps are essential components of every professional dental cleaning and help extend the time between dental visits. Our ultrasonic scaling equipment allows for efficient, thorough tartar removal. We recommend professional scaling at least annually, with more frequent intervals for pets with a history of rapid tartar buildup or gum disease.

Oral Health Assessment

A thorough oral health assessment goes beyond checking for visible tartar. Our veterinarians evaluate the gums, tongue, palate, and each tooth for signs of disease, fractures, or abnormal growths. This assessment is performed during dental cleanings and can also be part of a routine wellness exam. Early detection of oral disease leads to simpler interventions. We encourage pet owners to ask about at-home dental care routines including brushing, dental chews, and water additives that can help maintain oral health between professional cleanings.

Dental Surgery

Complex dental cases, including jaw fractures, oral tumor removal, and difficult extractions, require surgical expertise. Our dental surgery services are available around the clock for both emergency and planned procedures. For full details on our surgical capabilities, visit our Surgical Services page. Our 24/7 availability ensures that dental emergencies, such as fractured teeth or sudden oral bleeding, are addressed promptly and effectively.

Explore More Services

Wellness Exams and Preventive Care

Surgical Services for Complex Cases

Pre-Dental Blood Work and Diagnostics

FAQs

How often should my pet have a dental cleaning?

Most veterinarians recommend annual dental cleanings for adult dogs and cats. Some breeds, particularly small dogs and brachycephalic breeds, may benefit from more frequent cleanings due to higher susceptibility to dental disease.

Does my pet need anesthesia for a dental cleaning?

Yes. Professional dental cleaning requires general anesthesia to allow thorough cleaning below the gumline and to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Pre-anesthetic blood work is performed to ensure your pet is a safe candidate.

What are signs of dental disease in pets?

Common signs include bad breath, red or swollen gums, difficulty eating, drooling, pawing at the mouth, and loose or discolored teeth. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a dental assessment, early intervention prevents more serious problems.

Can dental disease affect my pet's overall health?

Yes. Bacteria from periodontal disease can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Maintaining dental health through regular cleanings and home care is one of the most impactful things you can do for your pet’s long-term wellbeing.

How can I maintain my pet's dental health at home?

Daily tooth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste is the gold standard for at-home dental care. Dental chews, water additives, and dental-specific diets can supplement brushing. Your veterinarian can recommend the best products for your pet’s needs and show you proper brushing technique.

At what age should dental care begin for puppies and kittens?

Dental assessments should begin during your pet’s first wellness visits. Professional cleanings typically start at one to two years of age, though some breeds may need earlier intervention. Establishing a dental care routine early helps prevent disease throughout your pet’s life.

Protect your pet's dental health. Call Atlas Animal Hospital at (604) 301-0300 to schedule a dental assessment. Open 24/7.