Dental Care
More than fresh breath
At Aqueduct Animal Hospital, the goal of pet dentistry isn’t just fresh breath–it’s helping pets stay comfortable, healthy, and fully engaged in everyday life.
Because dogs and cats often adapt to dental disease remarkably well, yearly dental exams and care allow us to identify problems early and relieve discomfort before they begin to affect their quality of life.
Through regular dental evaluations, professional cleanings, and timely treatment, we’ll help support your pet’s health for years to come.
Benefits of Preventive Dental Care
Prevents pain and infection
Keeps eating comfortable
Addresses bad breath at the source
Protects overall health
May reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatment later
Our Step-By-Step Approach to Thoughtful Dentistry
At Aqueduct, your pet’s dental care begins with a conversation—not the procedure itself.
From the initial exam through recovery, we’ll help you understand what’s happening, what we recommend, and what comes next.
Step 1: Examine and Plan
During a wellness visit or dental consultation, we’ll examine your pet’s mouth, assess visible disease, and discuss the care they may need. We’ll also explain the procedure, anesthesia and monitoring, potential risks and benefits, and anticipated costs.
When you’re ready, we’ll schedule the procedure and arrange pre-anesthetic bloodwork.
Step 2: Prepare With Confidence
On the morning of the procedure, we’ll ask how you’d like us to proceed if dental X-rays reveal that your pet needs more extensive care. You can request a call, set a cost limit, or authorize necessary care in advance. This helps prevent surprises while allowing efficient treatment.
We’ll also tailor your pet’s anesthesia and pain management to their age, health, and individual needs.
Step 3: Evaluate and Clean
Once your pet is safely anesthetized, we’ll take digital dental X-rays to evaluate every tooth, including the roots and supporting bone beneath the gumline.
We’ll remove plaque and tartar above and below the gums, polish the teeth, and identify any disease or damage requiring treatment.
Step 4: Provide Targeted Treatment
When dental surgery is needed, we use local nerve blocks to prevent pain and support a more comfortable recovery. Diseased teeth may be extracted, while damaged teeth may be repaired when appropriate.
All treatment will follow the communication plan established that morning.
Step 5: Recover and Heal
Your pet will be closely monitored throughout recovery to ensure their safety and comfort. Most pets return home that evening with detailed instructions, pain medication when needed, and a summary of their care.
If dental surgery was performed, we’ll schedule a two-week recheck to monitor your pet’s healing.
Caring for Dental Health at Home
Professional dental care is only one part of maintaining your pet’s comfort and oral health. We’ll work with you to develop a practical, achievable dental home-care routine that fits your pet and your lifestyle. This may include:
- Tooth brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste
- VOHC-approved dental chews and treats
- Veterinary dental diets
- Plaque-reducing water additives
- Other oral health products
- Regular dental cleanings under anesthesia
The goal of at-home dental care isn’t perfection, but small, consistent actions that support your pet’s oral health between visits.
Small Changes You May Notice
Many owners are surprised by how much better their pet seems after receiving dental care. These little changes may not look dramatic, but they’re often the first signs that your pet is feeling better than they have in a while. For some pets, this may include:
Eating more comfortably
Playing more often
Sleeping more peacefully
Grooming themselves more consistently
Seeking more attention and interaction
What to Expect
Safety at Every Step
Every procedure is handled with care and performed in accordance with established anesthesia and veterinary safety guidelines.
Clear, Personal Communication
Information is power–and peace of mind. We’ll keep you updated about your pet’s care and any changes to our recommendations.
Support Beyond the Procedure
You’ll go home with clear instructions and practical oral care guidance. If extractions are performed, we’ll see you back for a recheck exam.
Let's Help Your Pet Feel Their Best
When your pet feels better, life simply gets better for both of you. Whether it’s time for a routine dental cleaning or treatment of an existing disease, we’ll help your pet stay comfortable, healthy, and enjoying life for years to come.