Your pet’s dental health is just as important as their yearly vaccinations or heartworm prevention, but it’s often forgotten. Without proper care, dogs and cats can quickly develop plaque, tartar, gum disease, and even painful infections that affect more than just the mouth. Here’s the good news: with routine home care and professional veterinary dental cleanings, you can give your pet a brighter smile and potentially add 2–3 years to their life.
What’s Included in a Veterinary Dental Cleaning?
A professional cleaning goes far beyond what you can do at home. Your veterinarian carefully removes tartar from above and below the gumline, polishes the teeth for a smooth surface, and inspects the mouth for problems like fractures, abscesses, or even oral tumors. These are things no anesthesia-free cleaning or tooth brushing session can uncover, which is why veterinary dental care is so critical.
We Offer Complimentary Dental Evaluations
To make dental care accessible, we provide free dental evaluations with one of our trained veterinary technicians. During the visit, your pet’s teeth and gums will be assessed, and a dental grade will be assigned. If significant disease is detected, a veterinarian will need to examine your pet further, which may include prescribing antibiotics. In that case, a doctor’s exam fee will apply, and you may be asked to return for a follow-up visit so the veterinarian can discuss a full treatment plan.
The Link Between Oral and Overall Health
Dental disease is the most common illness in pets, with over 80% of cats and dogs showing signs by age 3. The impact goes far beyond bad breath, oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream and cause damage to vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. This is why regular cleanings are included in our Preventative Care Wellness Plans, which are available with low monthly payment options for convenience.
Warning Signs That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
If you spot any of these symptoms in your pet, it’s time to schedule a dental evaluation sooner rather than later:
- Foul breath that doesn’t go away
- Red or swollen gums
- Gums that bleed or saliva with blood
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup
- Loose, broken, or missing teeth
- Eating more slowly, chewing on one side, or dropping food
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Blood in the water dish or on toys
- Refusal to eat dry food or crunchy treats
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Swelling around the jaw or mouth
How Often Is Dental Cleaning Recommended?
The best frequency depends on your pet’s size, age, and health, but general guidelines include:
- Dogs and cats over age 3: At least once a year.
- Small breed dogs: Every 6–9 months due to faster tartar buildup.
- Pets on wet food diets: Every 6 months, since wet food doesn’t help clean teeth like kibble does.
- Senior pets (6+ years): Cleanings may be needed more often as gum disease risk increases.
- Pets with diagnosed dental disease: More frequent cleanings as directed by your veterinarian.
How You Can Help at Home
While professional cleanings are essential, home care makes a huge difference in slowing plaque and tartar buildup. Some tips include:
- Brush your pet’s teeth at least three times a week with pet-safe toothpaste.
- Give approved dental chews like Oravet or Greenies.
- Add Plaque Off powder to meals daily, it helps reduce tartar and prevents new buildup.
- Use dental wipes or water additives as extra support.
- Schedule routine exams so your veterinarian can track changes in your pet’s oral health.
Final Thoughts
Most pets benefit from annual professional cleanings, but your veterinarian will tailor a schedule based on your pet’s specific needs. A clean mouth doesn’t just keep kisses smelling fresh, it also means your pet will be healthier and happier.