Why we look at the teeth at every visit

By the age of three most dogs and cats have some gum disease, and most owners have not noticed. Teeth are easy to ignore because pets keep eating until things are quite bad.

What we look for

Tartar, red gums, loose teeth, broken teeth and smell. Bad breath is not normal; it is the first sign that bacteria have got under the gum line.

What you can do at home

Brushing works, and most dogs accept it if you build up slowly over a few weeks with a pet toothpaste. Dental chews help a little. Bones and antlers break teeth, so we do not recommend them.

When a scale and polish is needed

If tartar has built up under the gum, it needs to be removed under anaesthetic. We take X-rays at the same time because a lot of the damage is below the surface. Recovery is a day or two.

Cost

A dental costs from $280 depending on what is found. Pet health plan members get 10 percent off, and catching it early keeps the bill at the lower end.