Dental

Dental health is an essential part of your pet’s overall wellbeing. Problems in the mouth can lead to discomfort, infection, and may even impact other areas of the body if left untreated.

As part of your pet’s routine care, our veterinarians recommend a dental check at least once a year to identify early signs of disease and help keep your pet’s mouth clean, comfortable, and healthy.

You should schedule an exam sooner if you notice any of the following: Persistent bad breath, Broken, loose, or missing teeth, Extra teeth or retained baby teeth, Discolored teeth or visible tartar buildup, Difficulty chewing, drooling, or dropping food, Decreased appetite or reluctance to eat, Signs of pain in or around the mouth, Bleeding from the mouth, Swelling around the face or jaw.

Pets with dental discomfort may also show subtle behavior changes, such as irritability or withdrawal. These changes are often an early indicator that something isn’t right.

For your safety, always use caution when checking your pet’s mouth—painful pets may react unexpectedly.

At South Shore Animal Services, we’re here to help protect your pet’s health from nose to tail—starting with a healthy smile.