By the time most dogs and cats reach three years of age, they already show signs of dental disease. Yet it remains one of the most overlooked aspects of pet healthcare in West Yorkshire — and across the UK as a whole.
At Paws & Co Veterinary Centre, dental procedures are among the most common treatments we carry out. The good news is that with proper care and regular check-ups, much of this disease is entirely preventable.
What Is Dental Disease in Pets?
Dental disease (periodontal disease) begins with plaque — a film of bacteria that forms on the surface of teeth. Left untreated, plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which irritates the gums and leads to gingivitis. Over time, the bacteria spread beneath the gum line, attacking the ligaments and bone that hold teeth in place.
The result is pain, infection, tooth loss — and in serious cases, bacteria entering the bloodstream and affecting the heart, kidneys, and liver.
Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Problems
- Bad breath (halitosis) — often the first sign owners notice
- Yellow-brown tartar visible on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Dropping food, chewing on one side, or reluctance to eat
- Pawing at the mouth or face rubbing
- Excessive drooling
- Behaviour changes — becoming quieter or more irritable
Pets are instinctively good at hiding pain. By the time you notice obvious discomfort, dental disease may already be quite advanced. This is why regular dental checks during routine vet visits matter so much.
Professional Dental Treatments at Paws & Co
🦷 Scale & Polish with X-Rays
from £300. A thorough clean above and below the gum line, plus X-rays to assess roots and bone — essential for catching hidden disease.
🔬 Minor Dental Procedure
from £400. For early-stage infections or straightforward extractions carried out under general anaesthetic for your pet's comfort.
🏥 Major Dental Procedure
from £500. For more complex cases involving multiple extractions or significant gum and bone disease.
Preventing Dental Disease at Home
- Tooth brushing — the gold standard. A pet-specific toothbrush and enzymatic toothpaste (never human toothpaste) used daily makes a real difference
- Dental chews and diets 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
Members of our Companion and Companion Plus health plans receive discounted consultations, making it easier to stay on top of your pet's dental health throughout the year.
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 more straightforward, and more affordable, than leaving things to progress.