Maintaining healthy teeth and gums is an important part of your pet’s overall wellbeing. Good dental care helps prevent pain, infection, and long‑term health issues – and with the right support, it’s something you can manage confidently at home and with your vet team.
About dog dental cleaning
Why professional dental care is important
Dogs can develop plaque, tartar, gum disease and painful tooth decay just like humans. When dental disease progresses, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart and kidneys.
Professional dental care helps prevent these complications and keeps your dog comfortable, healthy, and happy.
How often should dogs get dental cleanings?
Most dogs benefit from a professional dental clean every 6–12 months, depending on their breed, age, diet, and at‑home dental routine.
Your vet will guide you on the right schedule for your dog.
Our dog teeth cleaning options
At Lort Smith, dental procedures are performed under general anaesthetic to ensure a thorough, stress‑free clean. Depending on your dog’s needs, this may include:
- Removal of plaque and tartar
- Polishing of all healthy teeth
- Extraction of decayed, loose, or fractured teeth
- Stitches to protect the gum if major extractions are required
Your vet will discuss the recommended treatment plan before the procedure.
Pre and post cleaning tips and considerations
Before the procedure:
- Your dog will need to fast prior to anaesthesia (your vet will advise timing).
- Please arrive 15 minutes early for check‑in.
After the procedure:
- Avoid hard foods for the first couple of weeks.
- Monitor for any bleeding, swelling, or discomfort.
- Your vet may recommend ongoing dental diets, chews, or toothbrushing.
To learn more about dog dental cleaning at Lort Smith, click here.
About cat dental cleaning
Why professional dental care is important
Cats are prone to dental disease, including tartar build‑up, gingivitis, and painful resorptive lesions. Because cats often hide discomfort, dental issues may go unnoticed until they are advanced.
Professional dental care helps protect your cat’s long‑term health and quality of life.
How often should cats get dental cleanings?
Most cats benefit from a professional dental clean every 12 months, though some may need more frequent care depending on their health and lifestyle.
Our cat teeth cleaning options
Our veterinary team provides gentle, comprehensive dental care for cats, including:
- Removal of plaque and tartar
- Polishing of healthy teeth
- Extraction of diseased or fractured teeth
- Pain management and aftercare guidance
All procedures are performed under anaesthetic to ensure safety and comfort.
Pre and post cleaning tips and considerations
Before the procedure:
- Your cat will need to fast before anaesthesia.
- Bring your cat in a secure carrier and arrive early for check‑in.
After the procedure:
- Offer soft food for several days.
- Monitor for drooling, pawing at the mouth, or reduced appetite.
- Follow any medication or aftercare instructions provided by your vet.
To learn more about cat dental cleaning at Lort Smith, click here.
Where are these services available?
Find us
Lort Smith North Melbourne
24 Villiers Street, North Melbourne VIC 3051
Lort Smith Campbellfield
25-35 Berwick Road, Campbellfield VIC 3061
We provide high‑quality, affordable veterinary dental care to pets across Melbourne.
By choosing Lort Smith, you’re not only supporting your own pet – you’re helping us care for animals and people experiencing hardship.
Book an appointment
Before booking a dental procedure, your pet will need a consultation with one of our vets. This allows us to examine their teeth and gums, assess the level of dental disease, and discuss the safest and most appropriate treatment plan.
Once your pet has had their dental check, our team will guide you through the next steps and help you book their procedure.
To get started, please call us or book a consultation online here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pet dental services include professional cleaning, polishing, dental X‑rays, and treatment of issues such as gum disease, fractured teeth, and tooth decay.
Dental disease can cause pain, infection, and long‑term health problems. Good dental care keeps your pet comfortable and reduces the risk of complications affecting the heart, kidneys, and other organs.
Most pets need a professional clean every 6–12 months, depending on their breed, age, and at‑home dental care.
Your pet is placed under anaesthetic so the vet can safely remove plaque and tartar, polish the teeth, and treat any diseased or damaged teeth.
Costs vary depending on the level of dental disease and whether extractions are required. You can view our fees and payment options on our website or speak with our team.
Common signs include:
- Bad breath
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Drooling
- Bleeding gums
- Pawing at the mouth
- Preference for soft food
- Visible tartar or discoloured teeth
Treatments may include cleaning, polishing, extractions, pain relief, and ongoing management plans such as dental diets or toothbrushing routines.
Dental chews can help reduce plaque, but they are not a substitute for professional cleaning or toothbrushing. Always choose products designed specifically for dental health.
Most pets should have their first dental check during their early vet visits – often around their first vaccination series – and then annually.
- Brush your pet’s teeth with pet‑safe toothpaste
- Use vet‑recommended dental diets
- Offer safe chew treats
- Schedule regular dental checks
