Dental Care for Pets in Greenwich: Signs, Treatments and When to See a Vet
Looking after your pet’s teeth is an important part of their overall health and wellbeing. Dental disease is one of the most common problems we see in dogs, cats and small pets, yet it can be easy to miss in the early stages. Many pets continue eating and behaving quite normally even when their mouths are uncomfortable.
At Blackheath Vets, we help pet owners in Blackheath, Greenwich, Lewisham, Kidbrooke and Woolwich recognise the early signs of dental problems and understand the treatment options available. Good dental care can make a real difference to your pet’s comfort, breath, appetite and quality of life.
If you are concerned about your pet’s teeth or gums, our services include preventative healthcare, health checks and dental advice tailored to your pet’s needs.
Why dental care matters for pets
Plaque starts to build up on your pet’s teeth every day. If it is not removed, it can harden into tartar. Over time, this can lead to inflamed gums, bad breath, pain, infection and damage to the tissues supporting the teeth. This is often referred to as dental disease or periodontal disease, which simply means disease affecting the gums and structures around the teeth.
Dental problems do not just affect the mouth. Ongoing infection and inflammation can have a wider impact on your pet’s health, particularly in older animals or those with existing medical conditions. That is why regular dental checks are such an important part of preventative care.
We encourage pet owners to include dental health as part of their routine pet care, alongside vaccinations, parasite control and regular health checks.
Common signs of dental problems in pets
Pets are often very good at hiding discomfort, so the signs of dental disease can be subtle at first. It is worth keeping an eye out for changes in your pet’s mouth, eating habits or behaviour.
Signs to watch for in dogs and cats
- Bad breath that is stronger than usual
- Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
- Red, swollen or bleeding gums
- Difficulty eating or chewing on one side
- Dropping food from the mouth
- Reduced appetite or becoming fussy with food
- Dribbling more than normal
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Loose, broken or missing teeth
- A change in behaviour, such as seeming quieter or more irritable
In some cases, pets may not show obvious signs until the problem is quite advanced. That is one reason routine examinations are so helpful, especially as your pet gets older.
Signs in rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets
Dental issues can also affect small pets, particularly rabbits and guinea pigs, whose teeth grow continuously throughout life. Problems can develop if the teeth do not wear down properly.
- Eating more slowly or struggling with food
- Dropping food or preferring softer foods
- Weight loss
- Wetness around the mouth or chin
- Reduced droppings
- Swelling around the jaw or face
Because dental problems in small pets can quickly affect eating, they should be checked promptly if you notice any of these signs.
What causes dental disease in pets?
Dental disease usually develops gradually. Some of the main contributing factors include:
- A build-up of plaque and tartar
- Lack of regular tooth brushing
- The natural shape and alignment of the teeth
- Age, as older pets are more likely to develop dental problems
- Breed, with some small dog breeds especially prone to dental disease
- Diet and chewing habits
- Underlying health issues affecting the mouth
Some pets are simply more at risk than others, even with good care at home. Regular checks help us spot changes early and advise on the best next steps.
When should you see a vet?
It is a good idea to book an appointment if you notice bad breath, tartar, red gums or any change in the way your pet eats. The earlier dental problems are identified, the easier they are usually to manage.
You should contact your vet promptly if your pet:
- Stops eating or seems reluctant to eat
- Has bleeding from the mouth
- Has a loose or broken tooth
- Shows signs of pain when chewing or being touched around the face
- Develops swelling of the face or jaw
If your pet is suddenly unwell, in pain, or has an urgent problem outside normal opening hours, please seek help through our emergency vetcare information.
How dental problems are diagnosed
During a consultation, we will examine your pet’s mouth and assess the teeth and gums. We will look for tartar, gum inflammation, loose teeth, fractures and other signs of disease. In some cases, the visible part of the tooth does not tell the whole story, as problems can also be present below the gumline.
If treatment is needed, we will explain our findings clearly and talk you through the options. You can also find out more about the care we offer through our main veterinary services page.
Treatment options for pet dental problems
The right treatment will depend on the severity of the problem and your pet’s individual needs.
Professional dental cleaning
A professional dental procedure allows us to clean the teeth thoroughly, including below the gumline where disease often develops. This is very different from cleaning visible tartar alone, as it helps treat the underlying problem rather than just improving appearance.
Your pet will usually need a general anaesthetic for this so the mouth can be examined and treated safely and properly. We know this can feel worrying for owners, but we will always discuss the process with you and answer any questions beforehand.
Tooth extractions
If a tooth is loose, broken, severely infected or causing pain, it may need to be removed. While no owner likes the idea of an extraction, removing a painful tooth can greatly improve a pet’s comfort and quality of life.
Pain relief and aftercare
If your pet has dental treatment, we may prescribe pain relief and give you advice on feeding, home care and follow-up. Most pets recover well and are much more comfortable afterwards.
If more complex treatment is needed, you can read more about our approach to advanced surgery and medicine.
How to help prevent dental disease at home
Home care plays a big part in keeping your pet’s mouth healthy. The best approach will depend on the species, age and temperament of your pet.
Brushing your pet’s teeth
For dogs, and in some cases cats, regular tooth brushing is one of the most effective ways to reduce plaque build-up. It is best to use a pet-safe toothpaste, as human toothpaste is not suitable for animals.
If your pet is new to brushing, start slowly:
- Let them get used to having their mouth touched
- Introduce the taste of pet toothpaste first
- Use a soft pet toothbrush or finger brush
- Keep sessions short and positive
- Build up gradually over time
Dental diets, chews and other products
Some dental chews, diets and water additives may help reduce plaque in certain pets. These are not a substitute for brushing or veterinary dental care, but they can be useful as part of a wider dental routine. We can advise on products that are appropriate for your pet.
Routine check-ups
Regular examinations are one of the best ways to catch dental issues early. Our preventative healthcare approach focuses on spotting potential problems before they become more serious.
For younger pets, early guidance can also help set up healthy habits from the start. You can learn more about our puppy and kitten checks if you have a new addition to the family.
Dental care for older pets
Older pets are particularly likely to develop dental disease, and they may need more frequent dental assessments. It is easy to assume that bad breath or slower eating is just part of getting older, but these can be signs of discomfort that should not be ignored.
With the right treatment and ongoing care, many senior pets can enjoy a much healthier, more comfortable mouth.
Supporting pet owners in Blackheath, Greenwich and beyond
Whether you live in Greenwich, Blackheath, Lewisham, Kidbrooke or Woolwich, we are here to support you with practical, compassionate advice on your pet’s dental health. If you have noticed any concerning signs, or if you would simply like your pet’s teeth checked, we are happy to help.
You can book an appointment online, or if you are new to us, you can register your pet with Blackheath Vets.
A gentle reminder
This article is intended for general guidance only. If your pet is unwell or showing concerning symptoms, please contact your vet for professional advice.
At Blackheath Vets, we are proud to provide friendly, professional care for pets and their owners across south east London. If you would like advice about your pet’s dental health, please book an appointment or visit our services page to learn more.
