Monday through Friday, 8am to 6pm255 Redondo Ave in Long Beach
Back to the hospitalPet care information

Care guides from Dr. Jin.

Learn what to expect, why it matters, and when to call us. Choose a topic below and take your time reading through it.

Dental careVaccinesPet travel
Dr. Jin’s care guides

Straight answers about common care questions.

Read more about dental cleanings, vaccines, and traveling with your pet.

What happens during a cleaning

What really happens during a dental cleaning

Tartar is only what you can see. A full dental cleaning lets us examine every tooth and look for painful problems below the gums.

Before the procedure

We examine your pet and run bloodwork before the procedure. If we find anything that could affect anesthesia we will talk with you before moving forward.

During the cleaning

While your pet is under anesthesia we remove plaque and tartar above and below the gums. We polish the teeth and examine the whole mouth without causing fear or discomfort.

What dental X rays can show

Dental X rays show the roots and bone below the gums. They can reveal broken roots, gum disease, abscesses, tooth resorption, and other painful problems.

A tooth with visible tartar and red swollen gums before cleaning
Before cleaning. Tartar has built up and the gums are inflamed.
The same tooth with a clean surface and healthier gums after cleaning
After cleaning. The tooth is smooth and the gums look healthier.
Clinical photo and dental X ray showing feline tooth resorption
Tooth resorption can be painful. A dental X ray helps us confirm it.
Dental X ray showing an abscess around a dog’s tooth root
A dental X ray can show a root abscess that is hidden below the gums.
When a dental specialist may help
  • Jaw fracture or oronasal fistula repair
  • Oral tumors and masses
  • Root canals or complicated extractions
  • Advanced periodontal therapy
  • Feline stomatitis or tooth resorption
  • Patients with a higher risk from anesthesia