Dental care
Pet dental care in Woodbridge, with cleanings under general anesthesia, digital dental x-rays to see below the gumline, and extractions when they are needed.
Signs of dental disease
Dental disease is one of the most common problems in adult dogs and cats. It often starts quietly. Watch for:
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Red or swollen gums
- Chewing on one side, dropping food, or rubbing at the face
- Loose or broken teeth
- Less interest in hard food or chew toys
Pets hide mouth pain well. Many keep eating with sore teeth, so a normal appetite does not mean the mouth is healthy. The doctor checks your pet’s teeth at every wellness exam.
Professional cleaning under anesthesia
A true dental cleaning is done with your pet under general anesthesia. That is the standard of care. It lets the doctor clean above and below the gumline, look at every tooth, and check the space around each one without stress or pain. We do not offer anesthesia-free cleanings. Scraping the visible teeth on an awake pet makes them look better but leaves the disease under the gums in place.
Before the cleaning, your pet has an exam and bloodwork, often run in our in-house laboratory. A team member monitors your pet the whole time your pet is asleep.
Digital dental x-rays
A large part of each tooth sits below the gumline, where no one can see it. Digital dental x-rays show the roots and the bone around them. They help the doctor find infection, bone loss, and broken roots in teeth that look fine from the surface. The images appear on screen within moments, so the doctor can use them during the procedure.
Extractions and other procedures
Sometimes a tooth is too damaged to save. If the exam or x-rays show a tooth that is infected, loose, or broken, the doctor may recommend removing it. If the doctor finds more work is needed than planned, we typically try to reach you first. Most pets do very well after an extraction and eat comfortably once the mouth heals. Pain control is part of every dental plan.
Care at home
Daily brushing is the best thing you can do between cleanings. Use a soft brush and a toothpaste made for pets, never human toothpaste. Start slowly with a few seconds a day and lots of praise. Dental chews and diets can help some pets, and we are glad to suggest options. To book a dental exam or cleaning in Woodbridge, request an appointment or call (703) 680-4646.
Common questions
Why does my pet need anesthesia for a cleaning?
Pets will not hold still for a full cleaning, and much of the disease hides under the gums. Anesthesia lets the doctor clean and check every tooth safely and without pain.
Is anesthesia safe for my older pet?
Age alone is not a reason to skip dental care. An exam and bloodwork beforehand help the doctor plan anesthesia around your pet's health. Call (703) 680-4646 to talk through any concerns.
Do you offer anesthesia-free cleanings?
No. They only reach what can be seen and can give a false sense that the mouth is healthy.
How often does my pet need a cleaning?
It varies. Some pets need one every year, and others can go longer. The doctor will check the mouth at each wellness exam and let you know.
Will my pet go home the same day?
Most dental patients go home the same day once they are awake and steady. We will give you a pickup time and home care instructions.
What can my pet eat after an extraction?
Many pets do best with soft or softened food for a short time while the mouth heals. Follow the instructions you receive at pickup.
Can I brush my cat's teeth?
Yes, many cats accept brushing if you start slowly. Even a few times a week helps, and we can show you how at your next visit.
Questions, or ready to book?
Call us during open hours or send a request online and we will call you back to set a time.