Dental Care

At Armistead Avenue Veterinary Hospital, we know that your pet’s health starts with their smile. Dental disease doesn’t just cause bad breath; it can lead to serious discomfort, infections, and even impact your pet’s heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why we offer comprehensive dental care for Hampton’s cats and dogs, from routine teeth cleanings to surgical extractions when needed. Our experienced team is here to make sure your pet stays healthy and pain-free, with fresher breath and a tail wag to match.

What to Expect During Your Pet's Dental Visit

Following AAHA standards, we perform every pet teeth cleaning under general anesthesia to ensure safety, comfort, and a thorough cleaning. We start with a full physical exam and pre-anesthetic bloodwork to make sure your pet is a good candidate for the procedure.
 
While under anesthesia, your pet will stay cozy in a warm air blanket and be closely monitored from start to finish. We use ultrasonic and hand tools to remove tartar from the teeth, including under the gumline where bacteria likes to hide, and finish with a polish to protect the enamel and slow future buildup.
 
Digital dental X-rays help us check the roots below the surface and spot any hidden issues like fractured teeth or bone loss. If extractions are necessary, we’ll call you first, then proceed with gentle care and pain management every step of the way.

Dental Care Services We Provide

Pet Teeth Cleanings

Routine cleanings remove the buildup that causes gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay. Just like us, pets benefit from annual dental care to stay healthy and comfortable long-term.

Dental X-Rays

Our digital dental X-rays give us a clear look below the gumline to assess root health, detect hidden infections, and make more informed decisions about your pet’s care.

Pet Dental Extractions

If your pet has a damaged or infected tooth, extraction may be the kindest option. We perform everything from simple extractions to surgical removals with careful pain control and a smooth recovery plan.

FAQs

Bad breath, drooling, red gums, loose teeth, pawing at the mouth, or reluctance to eat can all be signs of dental problems. If you notice anything unusual, we recommend scheduling a dental exam.

Yes. Anesthesia is what allows us to thoroughly clean beneath the gums, take X-rays, and make sure your pet is completely relaxed and pain-free during the procedure. It’s the safest and most effective way to care for their teeth.

Most pets benefit from a dental cleaning once a year, but some—especially small breeds or older pets—may need them more often. We’ll create a schedule based on your pet’s individual needs.

Not if they’re healthy. Tooth loss usually means there’s an issue like advanced periodontal disease. Regular dental exams can help catch problems early and prevent unnecessary tooth loss.

Brushing your pet’s teeth daily is ideal, but we know that’s not always realistic. We’ll help you choose dental diets, chews, or rinses that fit your lifestyle and keep your pet’s mouth as healthy as possible between cleanings.

Kind Words from Clients