Oral Surgery for Pets: What Every Pet Owner Should Know | South Park Animal Hospital

Dental health plays a critical role in your pet’s overall well-being, but sometimes regular cleanings and preventive care aren’t enough to address deeper problems. That’s where oral surgery comes in. At South Park Animal Hospital, we provide compassionate, expert oral surgical care for pets who need more advanced treatment to stay healthy, pain-free, and happy.

Oral surgery for pets may sound intimidating, but it’s often a necessary step in treating serious conditions that cannot be managed through routine dental care. One of the most common reasons for oral surgery is the extraction of damaged or infected teeth. When a tooth becomes severely decayed or the root is affected by infection, removing it can relieve your pet’s pain, stop the spread of disease, and improve their ability to eat and groom.

Other situations may call for more specialized procedures, such as correcting jaw fractures after trauma, removing oral tumors, addressing misaligned teeth that interfere with eating, or treating advanced gum disease. In cats, a condition known as feline tooth resorption can also require surgical intervention.

Before recommending oral surgery, our team at South Park Animal Hospital performs a thorough exam and often takes dental X-rays to assess what’s happening beneath the gumline. This helps us develop a clear picture of the issue and decide the best course of action. We understand that any surgical procedure can be concerning for pet parents, which is why we prioritize transparency, education, and safety every step of the way.

Anesthesia is used during all oral surgeries to keep your pet comfortable and pain-free. We take every precaution to ensure anesthesia is administered safely, including pre-surgical bloodwork and careful monitoring throughout the procedure. Once surgery is complete, your pet will be closely monitored as they recover and begin to wake up.

Recovery from oral surgery typically involves a period of rest and pain management. Depending on the procedure, your pet may need soft food for several days and may be prescribed antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications. Our team will provide you with detailed home care instructions to ensure your pet heals smoothly and comfortably. Most pets recover quickly and are noticeably more comfortable once their dental issue has been resolved.

It’s important not to overlook the signs that your pet may need oral surgery. These can include bad breath, drooling, difficulty chewing, pawing at the mouth, visible swelling, or a sudden change in appetite. Some pets are good at hiding discomfort, so routine exams are the best way to catch problems early before they require more invasive treatment.

At South Park Animal Hospital, we believe that a healthy mouth is key to a healthy pet. Oral surgery may not be something any pet owner wants to face, but it can be life-changing for animals suffering from dental pain or disease. With modern techniques, skilled veterinary care, and a strong focus on comfort and recovery, we make the process as smooth as possible—for both you and your pet.

If your pet is showing signs of dental discomfort or you’ve been told they may need oral surgery, schedule a consultation with South Park Animal Hospital today at (415) 523-4404 or visit us at 598 2nd Street,San Francisco, CA 94107. We're here to help your furry family member live a healthier, pain-free life.