Pet Dentistry in Tampa, FL
Pet Dental Services
In addition to providing exceptional wellness care for pets, Crosscreek Animal Hospital also offers Tampa pet dental care and dental cleaning procedures. We provide regular checkups and cleanings for both dogs and cats. These veterinarian supervised procedures are performed under anesthesia, protecting the safety of our staff and the well-being of the animal.
Using anesthesia prevents the pet from moving during the cleaning and allows the doctor to perform a full examination. Most pet owners can schedule a pet dental checkup and cleaning alongside their pet’s annual examination by our veterinarian.
Pet dental cleanings and checkups are incredibly similar to those performed by dentists on humans. During a dental exam, our veterinarian will carefully examine the pet’s mouth, gums, tongue, cheeks and teeth for any abnormalities or trouble spots. Dental issues identified during exams can include gum disease, tooth decay, and lesions. Typically, if any of these issues are found, treatment can be provided immediately.
Once the examination is complete, our highly trained veterinary dental hygienist will provide a full tooth cleaning to remove all tartar and will complete the cleaning with a tooth polishing. The polishing step helps to protect the teeth from future build-up of tartar and plaque. We recommend yearly professional pet dental cleanings, as well as routine teeth cleaning at home in between visits.
Common Pet Dental Ailments and Prevention
Crosscreek Animal Hospital routinely handles both cat and dog dental procedures. The majority of procedures involve routine checkups and cleanings. However, there are certain circumstances that require immediate attention. Impacted teeth, broken teeth, gum problems or any other circumstance that hinders the cat or dog from eating and drinking should be monitored. Also, bleeding from the mouth or gums of the animal should also be immediately reviewed by vet professional. If your pet has any of these issues, please contact us right away.
All puppies and kittens should also have their teeth examined beginning at their eight week animal hospital checkup. Our veterinarian will look to see if the teeth are growing in correctly or if they are becoming impacted. Some breeds experience this more often than others, but all dogs and cats can be affected by this ailment. If left untreated, impacted teeth can lead to abscesses and infections that can turn into a larger health problem for the pet.
Another common issue our team sees in regards to cat dental and dog dental problems is a disease called Stomatis. This ailment arises when a dog or cat’s immune system becomes allergic to a large buildup of tartar in the animal’s mouth. The immune system begins to see this as a life threatening condition and starts to shed the teeth. In turn, this keeps the animal from being able to consume food and causes great pain. If left untreated, Stomatis can lead to death.
Of course, the easiest way to avoid stomatis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, and other emergency oral problems is through routine pet dental examinations and cleanings. Regular pet wellness visits also play an important role in preventing dental disease and supporting your pet’s overall health. New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Lutz, Thonotosassa, Seffner, Zephyrhills and surrounding community pet owners interested in scheduling a dental appointment may do so by calling our clinic at (813) 994-6929.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pet Dental Care (Dogs & Cats)
When does my pet need a professional dental visit?
When rough tartar builds up on tooth surfaces and reaches the gum line, it’s time for a professional oral assessment, treatment, and prevention visit with your veterinarian.
What is involved in a dental exam?
A veterinary dental exam is the first step. Your veterinarian will confirm whether a cleaning is needed and review what procedures are likely.
- Pre-anesthetic bloodwork is required to evaluate kidney and liver function and ensure no anemia.
- More extensive heart and abdominal evaluation may be performed if needed. (Ie. pets with heart murmurs)
- Anesthesia is required to allow a full tooth-by-tooth exam, which is critical for detecting hidden dental disease.
What happens during a professional dental cleaning?
A professional dental cleaning visit includes:
- Complete oral exam under anesthesia
- Dental scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gum line
- Use of a dental probe to check gum health and periodontal pockets
- Dental X-rays (as indicated)
If periodontal disease is advanced, some teeth may require extraction. Because the extent of disease can only be determined once your pet is under anesthesia, your veterinarian will contact you during the procedure if additional treatment is needed.
How is my pet kept safe during anesthesia?
Your pet’s safety is always the highest priority. During a dental procedure, your veterinary team will:
- Place an IV catheter to provide quick access for fluids and medications.
- Administer IV fluids to support blood pressure, circulation, and kidney function.
- Use proactive warming methods (warming blankets, circulating warm water, or heated air devices) to maintain body temperature.
- Continuously monitor vital signs, including:
- Blood pressure
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) for heart rhythm
- Pulse oximetry (SpO₂) for oxygen levels
- Respiratory rate and depth
- Provide post-anesthesia monitoring until your pet is awake, comfortable, and stable.
These safety measures help ensure your pet’s procedure is as safe and stress-free as possible.
How are my pet’s teeth cleaned?
- Plaque and tartar are removed with both ultrasonic and hand scalers.
- Special attention is given to areas beneath the gum line, where periodontal disease starts.
- Teeth are polished to smooth out microscopic scratches, reducing future plaque buildup.
- A protective sealant may be applied to slow down tartar accumulation.
Why can’t I just remove tartar at home with a dental tool?
Trying to use a human dental scaler on your pet is not recommended:
- It only removes visible tartar above the gum line, leaving the dangerous buildup below.
- It is unsafe and nearly impossible to clean the inner tooth surfaces in a conscious pet.
- Improper use causes enamel scratches that worsen dental disease.
- Sudden movement from your pet could lead to painful gum injury.
Do I need an appointment for dental scaling and polishing?
Yes. A veterinary examination and pre-anesthetic testing are required before any dental procedure to ensure your pet’s safety.
How can I prevent tartar from coming back after cleaning?
Plaque begins to form within six hours of a dental cleaning. Prevention is key:
- Daily home care with brushing or rinsing (your veterinary team can demonstrate how).
- Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC)–approved products, treats, and diets proven to reduce plaque and tartar. See www.VOHC.org for a list of accepted products.
Can I use human toothpaste for my dog or cat?
No. Human toothpaste should never be used in pets.
- Ingredients can be toxic if swallowed.
- Many human products contain fluoride or high salt levels, which can be harmful.
- Baking soda should also be avoided because it disrupts stomach acid balance if ingested.
Why is pet toothpaste recommended?
Pet toothpaste is specially designed for dogs and cats:
- Non-foaming and safe to swallow
- Available in pet-friendly flavors like poultry, beef, malt, or seafood for cats, as well as mint
- Many contain enzymes to help break down plaque and reduce brushing time
When toothpaste tastes good, pets are more likely to accept brushing, making home dental care more successful.
Veterinary Tip: Routine professional cleanings, combined with advanced anesthesia monitoring and consistent home care, protect your dog’s and cat’s teeth, gums, and overall health.
