Thurles Veterinary Clinic Small animal practice · Co. Tipperary
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Dentistry

Dental care for dogs and cats, from routine scale and polish to surgical extractions. Every dental procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, with local nerve blocks for pain relief.

What we do

Dental care we provide

Scale & polish

Ultrasonic cleaning above and below the gumline, then polishing to smooth the tooth surface and slow the return of plaque.

Full oral examination

Every tooth is checked and charted under anaesthetic, including probing gum pockets for hidden disease.

Extractions

From loose teeth to surgical extraction of large multi-rooted teeth, with the gum closed over afterwards for comfortable healing.

Local nerve blocks

Dental nerve blocks numb the mouth during the procedure, so your pet needs less anaesthetic and wakes up more comfortable.

Broken & retained teeth

Removal of fractured teeth with exposed nerves, and of baby teeth that haven’t fallen out on their own.

Oral masses

Biopsy and histology of lumps in the mouth, and removal of small, early tumours where this can be done safely.

Cats

Cat dentals

Tooth resorption

Very common and painful in cats: the tooth is gradually broken down from within. Affected teeth are extracted.

Gingivostomatitis

Severe inflammation of the gums and mouth. Treatment often involves extracting the affected teeth, which gives many cats lasting relief.

Gum disease & broken teeth

Tartar, gum disease and fractured canine teeth, treated with cleaning and extraction where needed. Cats hide dental pain well, so regular checks matter.

Rabbits & small pets

Exotic dentals

We can carry out dental work on rabbits, guinea pigs and other small pets on request. A consultation is needed first so we can assess your pet and plan the procedure.

Overgrown teeth & spurs

Rabbit and rodent teeth grow continuously. Overgrowth and sharp spurs can cut the cheeks and tongue and stop them eating.

Signs to watch for

Eating less, dropping food, drooling, weight loss, or a change in droppings. These pets can go downhill quickly, so call us early.

Knowing our limits

What we don’t do

Some dental and oral surgery needs CT scanning and specialist skills to be done safely. We don’t attempt these here. Instead we refer to our dedicated specialist partners and stay involved in your pet’s care.

Jaw resections (maxillectomy & mandibulectomy)

Removal of part of the upper or lower jaw, usually for oral tumours. These need CT to plan surgery properly.

Advanced oral tumours

Some tumours are too advanced or extensive to remove, or can’t be removed safely without proper imaging. We’ll take a biopsy, explain the findings and discuss referral or comfort care with you.

Root canals, crowns & orthodontics

Tooth-saving procedures carried out by veterinary dental specialists.

Prices

Costs

Dogs

Dental scale & polishIncluding general anaestheticQuoted by your vet
ExtractionsMolars and carnassial teethQuoted by your vet

Cats

Dental scale & polishIncluding general anaestheticQuoted by your vet
ExtractionsMolars and carnassial teethQuoted by your vet

Exotics

Exotic dentalAfter a consultationQuoted by your vet

Costs depend on your pet’s size and needs. Your vet will give you a quote before any treatment.

Questions

Common questions

Why does my pet need a general anaesthetic?

Most dental disease is below the gumline. It can only be cleaned, examined and treated properly while your pet is asleep. Anaesthetic-free cleaning only polishes the visible tooth and leaves the disease underneath.

Will my pet be able to eat after extractions?

Yes. Most pets eat comfortably within a day or two, and often better than before, because the painful teeth are gone.

What signs of dental disease should I look for?

Bad breath, red or bleeding gums, tartar, dropping food, chewing on one side, or pawing at the mouth.

How can I keep my pet’s teeth healthy at home?

Daily tooth brushing with pet toothpaste is the gold standard. We’ll show you how and advise on dental diets and chews.

Book a dental check

Call us to book a consultation and we’ll examine your pet’s mouth and give you an estimate for any treatment.

Call 0504 67824