When Should My Pet See a Veterinary Dentist vs. a General Vet?

18 Sep When Should My Pet See a Veterinary Dentist vs. a General Vet?

Dental care is a critical part of your pet’s overall health, but not all dental problems can—or should—be handled by a general veterinarian. One common question we hear at Veterinary Dental Specialists of Wisconsin (VDSWI) is: “When should I bring my pet to a veterinary dentist vs a general vet?” Understanding the difference can help you make the best decisions for your pet’s oral and overall health.

The Role of a General Veterinarian

Your general veterinarian provides essential care for your pet, including:

1. Routine wellness exams
2. Basic dental cleanings and polishing
3. Preventive care advice
4. Identification of obvious dental problems

General veterinarians are trained to perform standard dental procedures, but complex cases may require specialized expertise and equipment.

When a Veterinary Dentist is the Right Choice

A veterinary dentist is a board-certified specialist with advanced training in diagnosing and treating complex dental and oral conditions. You should consider seeing a veterinary dentist when your pet has:

1. Severe periodontal disease – infection affecting the gums, bone, and tooth support
2. Tooth fractures or trauma – teeth that are broken, displaced, or causing pain
3. Tooth resorption (common in cats) – progressive destruction of the tooth
4. Oral tumors or masses – any unusual growths in the mouth
5. Malocclusions or bite problems – causing trauma or difficulty eating
6. Failed previous dental procedures – when a general cleaning or extraction hasn’t solved the problem

At VDSWI, our board-certified veterinary dentist can provide:

1. Comprehensive oral exams with advanced imaging, including CBCT and full-mouth radiographs
2. Specialized surgical procedures such as root canals, complex extractions, and jaw surgery
3. Individualized treatment plans for each pet, including anesthetic management and pain control

The Benefits of Specialist Care

Seeing a veterinary dentist ensures that your pet receives:

1. Expert evaluation of complex dental issues
2. Early detection of problems hidden below the gumline
3. Pain-free, precise procedures with advanced anesthetic and monitoring protocols
4. Long-term oral health solutions that prevent recurring problems

When in Doubt, Ask Your Vet

Many general veterinarians work closely with veterinary dentists. If your pet’s dental condition is beyond routine care, your general vet can provide a referral. Early intervention with a specialist can save your pet from pain, infection, and more extensive procedures later.

Schedule a Consultation

Your pet’s smile is more than just cosmetic. It’s a window into their overall health. If your pet shows signs of dental pain, bad breath, difficulty eating, or other oral issues, it may be time to consider whether they need care from a board-certified veterinary dentist vs. a general vet.

Call us today at 262-622-2537 or request an appointment online to schedule a consultation with our specialist team at VDSWI. Protect your pet’s oral health and give them the comfort and care they deserve.

Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (09/18/2025) Photo by Judy Beth Morris on Unsplash