Dental Care
Preventing pain and protecting wellness, one tooth at a time.
Dentals Done the Glastonbury Veterinary Hospital Way
Healthy teeth and gums play a major role in your pet’s overall well-being. Dental concerns such as tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and hidden tooth pain are extremely common in both dogs and cats.
70% of cats and 80% of dogs have dental disease by age three.
Dental disease affects far more than the mouth. Bacteria can strain major organs, and hidden pain can quietly change your pet’s behavior and daily comfort. Early dental care helps pets feel happier, more energetic, and more connected with their families.
At Glastonbury Veterinary Hospital, we know it can be difficult to realize your pet may be uncomfortable. Our team is here with compassion, clear guidance, and supportive care so you can feel confident in every decision you make for your pet.
During every wellness visit, we take time to evaluate your pet’s dental health, answer your questions, and help you understand what your pet may need now or in the future. You are never rushed, and your concerns always matter to us.
Dental Assessments During Wellness Visits
Your pet’s dental exam is an important part of their wellness and preventive check-up. Even pets who seem to be eating normally may be experiencing quiet discomfort. We know it can feel overwhelming when dental disease is discovered unexpectedly, so we walk you through everything we see in a gentle, supportive way.
During a wellness dental assessment, we evaluate:
- Tartar accumulation
- Gum redness or inflammation
- Bad breath
- Loose, fractured, or worn teeth
- Areas of pain or sensitivity
- Evidence of infection below the gumline
- Jaw alignment and oral masses
We also compare your pet’s mouth to standardized dental grading charts, like the on the left, so you can easily visualize what is happening and understand why certain treatments may help your pet feel better.
How We Determine When a Dental Procedure Is Needed
A professional dental cleaning under anesthesia is recommended when we see signs of disease that cannot be safely treated with brushing or home care alone. We know recommending anesthesia can feel stressful for many families, and we take the time to explain every step so you feel supported, not pressured.
We may recommend a dental procedure if we note:
- Moderate to heavy tartar buildup
- Gum recession or inflammation
- Loose or damaged teeth
- Persistent bad breath
- Pain during oral exam
- Signs of infection
- Difficulty chewing or dropping food
Our team always makes recommendations with kindness and transparency. We are here to partner with you, not overwhelm you.
“Dentals are one of the hardest things to estimate because pets hide dental issues really well. We don’t get the full picture until we’re actually in the mouth and can get the full scope of what’s going on below the gum line. I always call owners if something changes. They’re so appreciative, and it matters that they know their pet is in good hands.”– Dr. Jason Haviar, Owner.
What to Expect: Before, During, and After Your Pet’s Dental Procedure
We understand how much trust it takes to leave your pet for a procedure. Our team treats every patient with the same care, patience, and understanding we would want for our own pets.
Before the Dental Procedure
Your pet’s safety and comfort come first. Before any dental treatment, we take time to explain our findings, answer your questions, and carefully assess your pet’s overall health. From pre-anesthetic testing to clear home-care instructions, every step is designed to ensure a safe procedure and give you complete peace of mind.
Pre-Procedure Visit:
We welcome your questions and never expect you to make decisions alone.
- Review of dental findings
- Clear explanation of expected care
- Photos or charts to help you visualize concerns
Pre-Anesthetic Testing:
These steps help us create the safest possible plan for your pet.
- Blood work to confirm organ function
- Evaluation of heart and respiratory health
- Review of current medications or health conditions
Fasting and Home Preparation
We provide simple, easy-to-follow instructions for the night before the procedure. If you feel nervous or unsure, we are only a phone call away.
During the Dental Procedure
Your pet is cared for by a team who truly values their comfort and safety. We stay with them from the moment anesthesia begins until they are fully awake.
Anesthesia and Monitoring
We carefully monitor:
- Heart rate
- Blood pressure
- Oxygen levels
- Temperature
- Breathing
Full Oral Evaluation
Once your pet is comfortable, we examine the entire mouth, including areas that cannot be seen while they are awake. This helps us identify issues that may be causing pain that pets instinctively hide.
Dental Cleaning and X-Rays
- Ultrasonic scaling
- Subgingival cleaning
- Polishing
- Dental X-rays to identify hidden disease
Extractions or Additional Care
If painful or infected teeth are found, we will contact you whenever possible. We provide pain control and gentle handling to ensure your pet stays comfortable
After the Dental Procedure
After treatment, your pet is carefully monitored during recovery, and we keep you informed every step of the way. You’ll receive clear home-care instructions and guidance to support healing and long-term dental health.
Post-Procedure Monitoring
Your pet wakes up in a warm, calm environment with a team member by their side. We know recovery can feel emotional for owners, and we keep you updated so you are never wondering how your pet is doing.
We provide home care instructions, including personalized guidance on feeding, activity needs, medications, and what to watch for as your pet begins recovery.
Follow-Up Care
Your pet’s recovery and long-term dental health can benefit from the following:
- Recheck appointments
- Tooth brushing guidance
- Diet adjustments for long-term dental health
Schedule a Pet Dental Assessment
If your pet has bad breath, tartar buildup, or changes in eating or comfort, we are here to help. Together, we can give your pet a healthier mouth and a happier life.