Veterinary Dental Care In Stamford, CT

Your pet’s dental health plays a vital role in their overall well-being. Without regular care, plaque and tartar can lead to periodontal disease, which damages the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. This can cause pain, difficulty eating, tooth loss, and even allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Routine pet dental care not only prevents these problems but also improves your pet’s quality of life. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums helps them chew comfortably, reduces bad breath, and protects them from avoidable medical complications.

Dental disease often develops gradually, which means symptoms can go unnoticed until the problem becomes advanced. Watch for:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on the teeth
• Reluctance to eat or dropping food while eating
• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
• Changes in behavior such as irritability or reduced activity

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a veterinary dental appointment promptly to prevent the issue from worsening.

The most frequent dental problems we diagnose in dogs and cats include:

• Periodontal disease caused by plaque and tartar buildup
• Tooth fractures, often from chewing hard toys or objects
• Resorptive lesions in cats, which occur below the gum line and are very painful
• Retained baby teeth that disrupt proper bite alignment
• Infections or abscesses that cause swelling, pain, and fever

Our veterinary dental services are designed to treat these issues early and prevent recurrence.

When you bring your pet to Core Vets Animal Hospital for a dental appointment, you can expect a thorough and detailed evaluation that includes:

• Examination of all teeth, gums, tongue, and oral tissues
• Digital dental X-rays to assess hidden areas beneath the gum line
• Gum pocket measurements to check for periodontal disease
• Clear discussion of any findings, treatment recommendations, and home care tips

By combining a hands-on evaluation with advanced imaging, we can identify problems that are invisible to the naked eye.

A typical vet dental appointment takes between 45 and 90 minutes. The exact time depends on the amount of tartar buildup, the overall condition of your pet’s teeth, and whether any extractions or additional procedures are necessary. Every cleaning is done with your pet’s comfort and safety in mind.

Most pets benefit from an annual dental visit, but certain breeds and pets with a history of dental problems may require checkups every six months. Early detection is key, so regular appointments allow us to address small issues before they turn into painful or costly problems.

Preparing your pet for a dental  procedure is straightforward:

• Follow any fasting instructions provided by our team
• Share your pet’s complete medical history and any current medications
• Arrange for safe transportation and a quiet space at home for recovery after the procedure

Our staff will guide you through each step so you know exactly what to expect before, during, and after the appointment.

Yes. Veterinary dental X-rays are an essential tool for detecting problems that cannot be seen during a visual exam. This includes root infections, bone loss, impacted teeth, and hidden fractures. With this information, we can create an accurate and effective treatment plan.

Yes. Anesthesia is important for ensuring a thorough and stress-free appointment. It allows us to safely clean below the gum line, take precise X-rays, and perform any necessary extractions without causing discomfort. Your pet’s vital signs are monitored closely throughout the procedure for maximum safety.

Absolutely. Senior pets receive tailored anesthesia protocols, additional pre-anesthetic bloodwork, and careful monitoring during and after their procedure. These steps help minimize risk and support a smooth recovery for older pets.

The cost of a pet dental visit varies based on your pet’s size, oral health condition, and whether additional treatments are needed. We provide a detailed estimate after your pet’s examination so you can make an informed decision.

You can help protect your pet’s oral health between professional visits by:

• Brushing their teeth regularly with a pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste
• Offering veterinarian-approved dental chews or toys
• Checking their mouth for changes in color, odor, or comfort while eating

These simple steps can greatly reduce the risk of dental disease.

• Independent, community-focused practice with no corporate restrictions
• Advanced digital X-rays and in-house lab diagnostics for precise care
• Calm, compassionate, and fear-free approach for pets of all ages
• Clear, honest communication to help you understand every option
• Personalized care plans tailored to your pet’s unique health needs, lifestyle, and comfort

We are committed to building lasting relationships with our patients and their families, providing care that’s as personal as it is professional.