Veterinary dentistry includes a full oral exam as well as the cleaning, adjustment, extraction, or repair of your pets' teeth and all other aspects of oral health care. The process begins with an oral exam of your pet’s mouth by a veterinarian. Radiographs (x-rays) are necessary to evaluate the health of the jaw bone and the tooth roots below the gumline. Because most dental disease occurs below the gum line, where you can’t see it, a thorough dental cleaning and evaluation are performed under anesthesia. A dental cleaning includes ultrasonic scaling (to remove dental plaque and tartar) and polishing, similar to the process used on your own teeth during your regular dental cleanings.