Did you know that over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by the age of 3 years old?! Dental disease is one of the most common and preventable health issues in pets. Left untreated, it causes pain, tooth loss, and bacterial spread to vital organs, including the heart. Yet many owners in Telford and across Shropshire never check their pet’s teeth because they don’t know what to look for, or because their pet resists it.
Beth’s Pawfect Pet Services offers home visits for dental health checks and toothbrushing support. Helping you understand your pet’s oral health, how to brush correctly and working with resistant pets through a structured desensitisation program.
Why choose a Vet Nurse for dental health checks & toothbrushing?
As a Registered Veterinary Nurse with a BVNA/BVDA Oral Care Nurse Certificate, I am trained in oral health assessment and I am experienced at spotting the early signs of dental disease, including fractured teeth, gingivitis, oral masses and more. These are often missed by owners or other pet carers. I can grade tartar build-up, assess gum health and give you an honest picture of whether your pet needs a veterinary dental (a scale and polish under general anaesthetic), or whether home care is sufficient for now. I’ll also demonstrate the correct brushing technique with pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste, which makes an enormous difference to how effective your home dental care routine actually is.
Dental Health Checks & Toothbrushing
From £22
What’s included?
Every dental health check appointment includes:
- Visual dental health assessment (teeth, gums and tongue, including visual gingivitis scoring and tartar scoring)
- Toothbrushing demonstration with pet-safe enzymatic toothpaste
- Advice on dental diet, chews and water additives
- Written summary and photos of concerns, if applicable
- Vet referral if professional dental treatment is indicated
Desensitisation Program Available
Many pets, especially cats, strongly resist having their mouth handled. Over several short positive reward-based sessions, I’ll gradually build up your pets confidence with muzzle and lip handling, teeth inspection, and eventually toothbrushing, all at a pace that suits them.
This is ideal for young pets as a preventative measure, and for any pet who has previously found dental home care or dental assessment by the vet stressful. Contact me to discuss a plan for your pet.
Discount is available for buying a package of 3 or more sessions, enquire for more details.
Who is this for?
My dental health check & toothbrushing home visits are ideal for:
- Owners whose pets have never had their teeth brushed and don’t know where to start
- Pets with known dental issues who need regular monitoring between vet visits
- Nervous or resistant pets who won’t tolerate mouth handling
- Older pets where dental disease is more likely and more serious
- Owners who want to avoid costly dental procedures through better prevention
- Cats who resist toothbrushing and need patient, experienced handling
- Cats and dogs that get stressed when travelling to the vets for routine dental checks
- Busy owners who want a convenient, professional service that comes to them
Areas Covered
I cover Telford and the surrounding villages, including Broseley, Much Wenlock, Newport, and Shiftnal.
Not sure if I cover your area? Just get in touch, I’m happy to check.
How to Book
Booking is simple. Contact me to discuss your pet or book via our online booking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?
Daily is ideal. Just like in humans, daily brushing is the most effective way to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Even brushing 3 to 4 times a week makes a significant difference compared to not brushing at all. The key is consistency and using the right technique and equipment, which I will demonstrate during our appointment.
Can I use human toothpaste on my dog or cat?
No. Never use human toothpaste on pets. Many human toothpastes contain fluoride and xylitol, both of which are harmful and toxic. Always use a toothpaste specially formulated for pets. These come in flavours pets enjoy, like chicken or beef, which makes the brushing process much easier.
My pet won’t let me near their mouth. What can I do?
This is one of the most common concerns I hear. The answer is gradual desensitisation, starting with just touching the muzzle and building slowly over multiple sessions until your pet accepts full dental inspections and brushing.
Forcing your pet often makes things worse and can damage your relationship with your pet. My structured program takes this step by step with positive reinforcement throughout.What are the signs of dental disease in dogs and cats?
Signs include bad breath (the most common early sign), yellow or brown tartar on the teeth, red or bleeding gums, difficulty eating or dropping food, pawing at the mouth, and in advanced cases, facial swelling.
Many pets hide dental pain well and continue to eat, which is why regular checks are so important.Is a dental check & toothbrushing the same as a veterinary scale and polish?
No, a veterinary scale and polish (carried out under a general anaesthetic) is professional cleaning that removes tartar below the gum line and treats dental disease. My dental health check is a visual assessment and home care support for preventative dental care.
I can identify whether your pet is likely to need a dental scale and polish and refer you to your vet, but I do not replace veterinary dental treatment.