Dental Care

Dental care at Cypress St. Animal Hospital helps protect your pet from the pain and health risks associated with oral disease. Studies indicate that most dogs and cats over the age of three have some degree of dental disease, making routine oral care one of the most important preventive services we offer. Our Kitsilano dental team provides professional cleanings, extractions, digital dental radiography, and oral health assessments seven days a week.

Professional Dental Cleaning for Dogs and Cats

Professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be addressed by brushing alone. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia for the safety and comfort of your pet, allowing our team to clean below the gumline where most dental disease begins. Each cleaning includes scaling, polishing, and a full oral examination.

Tooth Extractions for Pets

Tooth extractions are recommended when teeth are fractured, severely decayed, loose, or causing pain that compromises your pet's quality of life. Our veterinary team uses digital dental X-rays to evaluate tooth roots and surrounding bone before performing extractions. The procedure is done under full anesthesia with nerve blocks for pain management.

Oral Infection Care for Dogs and Cats

Oral infections can affect the gums, tooth roots, and surrounding tissues, causing pain, swelling, drooling, and reluctance to eat. Left unaddressed, oral infections can spread to other organs through the bloodstream. Our team identifies the source through clinical examination and dental radiography, then develops a care plan.

Digital Dental X-Rays for Pets

Digital dental X-rays reveal what lies beneath the gumline — the two-thirds of each tooth that cannot be seen during a visual exam. These images help our team identify hidden root disease, abscesses, bone loss, and retained tooth fragments. Dental radiography is standard for every professional cleaning.

Oral Health Assessment for Dogs and Cats

An oral health assessment evaluates your pet's teeth, gums, tongue, palate, and jaw for signs of disease or abnormality. This assessment is performed as part of every wellness exam and again under anesthesia during professional cleanings. Early detection of oral issues allows for less invasive care. We also provide guidance on at-home dental care.

Explore More Services

Pet care services including wellness exams

Surgical services for advanced dental procedures

In-house diagnostics including dental radiography

FAQs

How often should my dog get a dental cleaning?

Most dogs benefit from a professional dental cleaning once a year. Some breeds may need cleanings more frequently due to their predisposition to dental disease. Our team will recommend a schedule based on your dog’s oral health.

What are the signs of dental disease in cats?

Common signs include bad breath, drooling, difficulty eating, pawing at the mouth, red or swollen gums, and visible tartar buildup. Cats are also prone to tooth resorption. An oral assessment can detect these issues early.

Is anesthesia safe for dental cleanings in older pets?

Anesthesia for dental cleanings is generally safe for older pets when preceded by a thorough pre-anesthetic assessment including bloodwork and a physical exam. Our team uses modern monitoring equipment and tailored protocols.

Can I brush my cat's teeth at home?

Yes, regular brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste can help reduce plaque buildup between professional cleanings. Start slowly and use positive reinforcement. Our team can demonstrate proper technique during your next visit.

Why does my pet need dental X-rays?

Dental X-rays reveal disease below the gumline that is invisible to the naked eye, including root abscesses, bone loss, and hidden fractures. Without radiography, significant dental disease can go undetected.

Call Cypress St. Animal Hospital at (604) 734-2500 or schedule an appointment online.
Our Kitsilano team is here seven days a week.