At Animal Dental Services, we are passionate about providing pets with premium dental and oral surgery care. Owner and Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College, Dr. Sharon Startup, practices in Knoxville, TN and Charleston, SC and supports the education for dentistry for general veterinary practices around the world.
Dr. Startup DVM, DAVDC sees cases that vary from complicated surgical cases to routine dental cleanings and X-ray. She specializes in oral surgery, root canal therapy for fractured teeth, periodontal therapy, jaw fracture repair, oral cancer management, restorative therapy for tooth defects, and malocclusion correction.
31 years ago Dr. Startup started practicing veterinary medicine. She graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, and in 1989, she started a general veterinary practice in Knoxville, TN. She began performing dental procedures and oral surgery in 1997. Her interest in Veterinary Dentistry grew, and she pursued advanced training so that she could provide the best dental care for her patients. In 2014, Dr. Startup became a Diplomate of the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC), joining the elite group of dental specialists worldwide who have successfully passed the AVDC boards.
Dr. Startups passion for her field has led her to stay very involved. She has published articles and book chapters and taught senior veterinary students, veterinary interns, as well as private practitioners from around the globe.
Dr. Startup works to support veterinarians around the world with the existing dentistry knowledge in their clinics with Continuing Education courses and speaking events to help up-to-date, quality dentistry make sense for clinics of all sizes. The tailor-made, RACE approved CE courses aim to share how beneficial up to date dentistry can be for the patients, the clients, and the clinics. Common CE topics include: how to perform faster and better quality extractions, how to make dental X-ray fast and cost effective, and how to use nerve blocks.
Reviews
Rating 4.1 out of 5 based on 13 reviews
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newest oldest highest lowestLori Foster
a year ago
Dr Startup was able to treat my dog for a misdiagnosis from Forest Park Animal Clinic. After going through a misdiagnosis of palatal cancer we sought out several different opinions. Dr Startup's resident was able to do additional biopsies and a procedure was scheduled with Dr Startup that was able to save half of his palate rather than the misdiagnosis of mouth cancer we received prior, before biopsy results were back. If your pet has any type of mouth issues that you are concerned with I highly recommend going to Dr Startup. She gave my "Eros" his life back!
BJ BJP
2 years ago
I have used Startup in the past. However, my other dog needed dental work and when I had his pre-op bloodwork done by my vet, it showed a possible problem. I sent fax, I sent emails, I had several phone calls into Startup...not one was responded to; so I did not keep the appointment. This dental clinic needs to get a whole lot better in responding to their clients before I will ever use her again. No excuses here...none.
Jessica Lynn Sexton
2 years ago
Had a 7 y/o cat with Gingivostomatitis. He had to have ALL his teeth removed. It was costly, but quote was reasonable considering what I found on Google for prices. Surgery ran longer and was harder due to some issues with getting the teeth out, but they stuck with only charging the max end of initial quote. They were all very nice. Now a little over 2 months later my toothless mini panther is doing well. Would use services again.
Bradley James
3 years ago
My girl had to have a broken tooth taken out and I was worried to death as she has never been through anything like that. Every single person I spoke with was incredible at this place.They kept me informed before and after which gave me 100% confidence I made the right decision. It's reassuring when you can tell people genuinely care for what they do. Thank you Dr. Startup and Stephanie for being the ideal professionals.
Jessica Lynn Sexton
3 years ago
Had a 7 y/o cat with Gingivostomatitis. He had to have ALL his teeth removed. It was costly, but quote was reasonable considering what I found on Google for prices. Surgery ran longer and was harder due to some issues with getting the teeth out, but they stuck with only charging the max end of initial quote. They were all very nice. Now a little over 2 months later my toothless mini panther is doing well. Would use services again.
BJ BJP
3 years ago
I have used Startup in the past. However, my other dog needed dental work and when I had his pre-op bloodwork done by my vet, it showed a possible problem. I sent fax, I sent emails, I had several phone calls into Startup...not one was responded to; so I did not keep the appointment. This dental clinic needs to get a whole lot better in responding to their clients before I will ever use her again. No excuses here...none.
James Vagts
3 years ago
We are most Thankful for Dr. Startup, Stephanie, Mercedes and staff. Our furry little girl had an abscess tooth as well as other dental issues found on the x-rays. We were very concerned about having dental procedures performed on our 16 year old little MinPin/Jack Russell mix because she has heart issues which makes her a high risk for anesthesia. Dr. Startup and her staff were friendly, personable, caring, communicative and thorough. We opted for x-rays prior to removing the abscess tooth as suggested to see if any additional teeth were in need of dental care. The ounce of prevention by having the x-rays done showed additional teeth requiring care and removal. Prior to performing any dental care other than the planned removal of the abscess tooth, Stephanie spoke with us letting us know exactly what teeth needed to be removed, why they needed to be removed as well as the cost. So in contrast to the review that stated the pet had teeth removed without the pet owners knowledge and that doctor Startup has a God complex I find this to be unfounded. They were upfront with what needed to be done for our pets health. If your dog needs any dental care I would highly recommend Animal Dental Services and Doctor Startup and her staff.
Bradley James
3 years ago
My girl had to have a broken tooth taken out and I was worried to death as she has never been through anything like that. Every single person I spoke with was incredible at this place.They kept me informed before and after which gave me 100% confidence I made the right decision. It's reassuring when you can tell people genuinely care for what they do. Thank you Dr. Startup and Stephanie for being the ideal professionals.
James Vagts
4 years ago
We are most Thankful for Dr. Startup, Stephanie, Mercedes and staff. Our furry little girl had an abscess tooth as well as other dental issues found on the x-rays. We were very concerned about having dental procedures performed on our 16 year old little MinPin/Jack Russell mix because she has heart issues which makes her a high risk for anesthesia. Dr. Startup and her staff were friendly, personable, caring, communicative and thorough. We opted for x-rays prior to removing the abscess tooth as suggested to see if any additional teeth were in need of dental care. The ounce of prevention by having the x-rays done showed additional teeth requiring care and removal. Prior to performing any dental care other than the planned removal of the abscess tooth, Stephanie spoke with us letting us know exactly what teeth needed to be removed, why they needed to be removed as well as the cost. So in contrast to the review that stated the pet had teeth removed without the pet owners knowledge and that doctor Startup has a God complex I find this to be unfounded. They were upfront with what needed to be done for our pets health. If your dog needs any dental care I would highly recommend Animal Dental Services and Doctor Startup and her staff.
L G
4 years ago
I brought my little dog here after the previous vet refused to treat him. He was in a very bad spot and in need of surgery that we couldn't afford. Stephanie worked with us and dropped the price to save my little guy. They're in it for the pets not the money. Thank you for helping me keep my little Buddy!
Jon Scott
4 years ago
Dr. Startup is amazing. I cannot recommend her more. I would give her 10/5 stars if I could. If your pets need dental work and you are lucky enough to live in the Knoxville area do not hesitate to bring them to Animal Dental Services. Both of my dogs had to have procedures to repair damaged teeth and Dr. Startup took great care of them. My fiance and I are so thankful.
Amanda Pittman
4 years ago
Can't say enough good things about Dr. Startup and the entire staff. They truly care about you and your pet.
Sam M-S
4 years ago
Dr. Startup, Andrea and everyone else I interacted with were excellent in every regard. They were up-front, relatable, and it was clear they were all devoted to giving my dog a better, longer life. Dental surgery isn't cheap and my dog had extensive damage at a young age. I felt like they were transparent with the cost and worth every penny. If you want the best possible dental care for your pet, this is the place.
Julie Bryant
4 years ago
My sister, Grace Burrell, was referred to Animal Dental Services by her vet. She took her dog, Sadie, on July 18 for a tooth extraction. The office staff was kind and considerate but Dr. Startup has a God complex and was very rude. My sister arrived early which is so much better than being late. She was criticized for this by Dr. Startup. Also, she was criticized for Sadie barking. Again, Sadie is a DOG. For one tooth extraction, my sister was charged over $1,600. She took this as a personal insult. She felt that Dr. Startup was punishing her for arriving early and Sadie barking. Grace states that she will never set foot in the clinic again. There are other dental vets that are more considerate, more professional and more reasonable.
L G
5 years ago
I brought my little dog here after the previous vet refused to treat him. He was in a very bad spot and in need of surgery that we couldn't afford. Stephanie worked with us and dropped the price to save my little guy. They're in it for the pets not the money. Thank you for helping me keep my little Buddy!
Jon Scott
5 years ago
Dr. Startup is amazing. I cannot recommend her more. I would give her 10/5 stars if I could. If your pets need dental work and you are lucky enough to live in the Knoxville area do not hesitate to bring them to Animal Dental Services. Both of my dogs had to have procedures to repair damaged teeth and Dr. Startup took great care of them. My fiance and I are so thankful.
Julie Bryant
5 years ago
My sister, Grace Burrell, was referred to Animal Dental Services by her vet. She took her dog, Sadie, on July 18 for a tooth extraction. The office staff was kind and considerate but Dr. Startup has a God complex and was very rude. My sister arrived early which is so much better than being late. She was criticized for this by Dr. Startup. Also, she was criticized for Sadie barking. Again, Sadie is a DOG. For one tooth extraction, my sister was charged over $1,600. She took this as a personal insult. She felt that Dr. Startup was punishing her for arriving early and Sadie barking. Grace states that she will never set foot in the clinic again. There are other dental vets that are more considerate, more professional and more reasonable.
Amanda Pittman
5 years ago
Can't say enough good things about Dr. Startup and the entire staff. They truly care about you and your pet.
Sam M-S
5 years ago
Dr. Startup, Andrea and everyone else I interacted with were excellent in every regard. They were up-front, relatable, and it was clear they were all devoted to giving my dog a better, longer life. Dental surgery isn't cheap and my dog had extensive damage at a young age. I felt like they were transparent with the cost and worth every penny. If you want the best possible dental care for your pet, this is the place.
Peggy Davis
5 years ago
My dog had dental radiographs when this clinic came to my city because my vet does not have dental x-ray, and Dr. Startup determined that approximately six teeth needed to be removed. She removed almost twice that many, and now my dog has virtually no teeth left on one upper side of her mouth. In addition, when I examined the statement of charges and showed it to another veterinarian, she said that many of the charge items were excessive and unnecessary. While Dr. Startup and her staff were quite nice, I feel that I was misled and overcharged.
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