We’ve all joked about “dog breath” — but here’s the truth: bad breath in pets is not normal. It’s almost always a sign of dental disease, which is painful, progressive, and dangerous if left untreated. It’s not something to laugh off.
At Paws & Co Veterinary Centre in Tingley, dental procedures are among the most common treatments we carry out. Most of the disease we treat could have been caught — and managed — far earlier.
Why Bad Breath Matters
The mouth is a window into your pet’s overall health. What begins as plaque — a thin film of bacteria on tooth surfaces — hardens into tartar, irritates the gums, and over time leads to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Bad breath is often the first sign owners notice. By the time it’s obvious, the disease is usually already established.
Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats
- Bad breath — persistent, unpleasant odour from the mouth
- Yellow-brown tartar visible on the teeth, especially the back molars
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Dropping food, chewing on one side, or reluctance to eat
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Excessive drooling or blood-tinged saliva
- Loose, missing, or fractured teeth
Pets are excellent at hiding pain and discomfort. By the time they show obvious signs of dental problems, the disease may already be severe. This is why regular dental checks during routine vet visits are so important — we can identify problems that aren’t yet visible or causing obvious symptoms.
Our Dental Services
🦷 Scale & Polish with X-rays
from £300. A full clean above and below the gum line, with dental X-rays to assess root and bone health — essential for finding hidden disease.
🔧 Minor Dental Procedure
from £400. For early-stage infections or simple extractions, carried out under general anaesthetic for your pet’s comfort and safety.
🏥 Major Dental Procedure
from £500. For more complex cases involving multiple extractions or significant gum and bone disease requiring specialist treatment.
Preventing Dental Disease at Home
- Daily tooth brushing with a pet-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste — never human toothpaste
- Dental chews and diets specifically formulated to reduce plaque build-up
- Water additives and dental gels as a supplementary measure
- Annual dental checks as part of your pet’s routine health appointments
Book a Dental Check at Paws & Co
If you’ve noticed any signs of dental disease — or it’s simply been a while since your pet’s teeth were checked — book in with our team. Early treatment is always simpler and more affordable.