DENTAL
HEALTH

Looking for trusted veterinary dental care in Lake Forest or Mission Viejo? At El Toro Animal Hospital, we believe a healthy mouth is the foundation of lifelong wellness for dogs and cats. Our team provides compassionate, thorough dental cleanings with full-mouth X-rays, gentle anesthesia, and advanced diagnostics.

We also offer affordable dental care plans with transparent pricing—because every pet deserves excellent care without surprises. Learn more about our Wellness Exams, Soft Tissue Surgery, or New Client Info.

Why Pet Dental Care Matters

• Prevents Pain: Dental disease, like plaque buildup and gum inflammation, can be very painful for pets
• Avoids Serious Health Issues: Bacteria from dental disease can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver
• Freshens Breath: Persistent bad breath in pets is a common sign of dental problems
• Preserves Teeth: Regular care helps prevent tooth loss and the need for extractions

Signs Your Pet May Have Dental Disease

If you notice any of these, it's time for a dental check:

• Bad breath that persists
• Red, bleeding, or swollen gums
• Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or face sensitivity
• Chewing on one side, dropping food, picky eating
• Yellow-brown buildup on teeth (tartar)

We see these symptoms often in Lake Forest and across Orange County—and earlier treatment is usually easier and more comfortable for pets.

Our Dental Process (What to Expect)

We make veterinary dentistry a gentle and thorough process for your pet.

1. Comprehensive Exam and Oral Assessment

Before any procedure, our veterinarian performs a complete physical exam. We'll discuss your pet's health history and do an initial oral assessment to understand their specific dental needs.

2. Anesthesia Plan and Safety

To ensure your pet's comfort and allow for a thorough cleaning, dental procedures are performed under general anesthesia. Every dental cleaning requires anesthesia. That's why we run pre-surgical blood work beforehand to ensure your pet is safe to go under. We prioritize safety with a personalized anesthesia plan based on your pet's age and health. Your pet is closely monitored by trained staff throughout the entire procedure.

3. Professional Cleaning (Above and Below the Gumline)

Our skilled team carefully cleans each tooth, removing plaque and tartar both above and, crucially, below the gumline. This subgingival cleaning is vital for preventing and treating periodontal disease.

4. Dental X-rays for Pets

We include full-mouth dental X-rays for pets as part of our comprehensive care. X-rays reveal problems hidden beneath the gumline, such as abscesses, bone loss, or impacted teeth, that are not visible during a surface exam. This helps us accurately diagnose and treat all issues.

5. Extractions if Needed & Aftercare Overview

If X-rays reveal severely diseased or damaged teeth, pet tooth extraction may be necessary to relieve pain and prevent further complications. We'll discuss any findings with you before proceeding. After the procedure, we provide clear instructions for at-home care, including pain management and follow-up.

Aftercare at Home

Maintaining good oral hygiene at home is crucial after a professional cleaning. At El Toro Animal Hospital, we emphasize home dental care using products recognized by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) for their effectiveness in reducing plaque and tartar.

• Regular Brushing: Brush your pet's teeth daily or as often as possible with VOHC-accepted pet-safe toothpaste
• Dental Chews & Diets: Consider VOHC-accepted veterinary-approved dental chews or specialized dental diets
• Water Additives: Ask us about VOHC-accepted water additives that help reduce plaque between cleanings
• Regular Check-ups: Schedule routine dental exam appointments as recommended

Frequently Asked Questions