Does my dog need a dental cleaning? You may ask if the answer is yes, here are six healthy dog dental cleaning tips you need to know. Most dog owners have been advised by their vets that their dogs could benefit from dental cleaning, which is often overlooked despite its significance in maintaining a dog’s health. It is recommended that your furry companion(s) receive dental cleaning from a licensed veterinary dentist at least once a year. This article will provide insight into the frequency of dog dental cleaning, its importance, and the procedure involved.
How Often Does My Dog Need a Dental Cleaning?
Dental health for dogs is crucial, and most veterinary dentists suggest that dogs have their teeth cleaned at least once a year. Nevertheless, this can vary depending on the breed and any pre-existing health conditions. Generally, larger dogs require one annual dental cleaning, or less often, whereas smaller dogs may need two visits per year to prevent tooth loss. If your dog experiences discoloured or broken teeth, excessive bad breath, reduced appetite, or bloody drool, it is recommended that you seek immediate dental care. Do not hesitate to contact a veterinarian regarding your dog’s teeth, even if you are unsure if something is wrong.
If you are interested in learning more about your pet’s specific dental needs, it is advisable to schedule a dog dental check-up. This can be done without a special appointment, as most veterinarians are happy to take a quick look at your dog’s teeth and advise you on when cleaning may be required. However, a separate appointment will most likely be necessary for the actual cleaning.
Do Dogs Need Their Teeth Professionally Cleaned?
For dog owners, medical procedures can be pretty costly, particularly for those without pet insurance. Perhaps you have found that cleaning your dog’s teeth at a veterinary clinic can be too expensive, and have opted instead for at-home alternatives like toothbrushes and dental dog treats. While these methods can be useful in preventing excessive dental disease or delaying dental cleanings, they are not sufficient substitutes for dogs with moderate to severe oral disease.
Failing to have your dog’s teeth cleaned professionally can expose your pet to a variety of health problems. Tooth or periodontal disease can affect up to one in three dogs before they turn three years old. Dental disease can have severe consequences for your dog’s overall health, including tooth root abscesses, oral pain, or even bloodstream infections that can spread to other areas of the body, such as the heart or liver. As with any other aspect of your dog’s health, it is critical to have a reliable professional regularly clean your dog’s teeth, and to maintain dental health between visits with regular tooth brushing and/or VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council)-approved dental treats.
How Old Should My Dog Be For Their First Teeth Cleaning?
Typically, it is widely acknowledged that dogs should receive their initial teeth cleaning between the ages of 2 and 3 years old, although this may vary depending on the breed. In some cases, smaller dogs may require their first dental cleaning as early as 2 years of age. Failing to do so may subject your pet to conditions such as periodontal disease and the need for tooth extraction.
Even if your young dog appears to be free of evident oral pain or maladies, it is still important to prioritize teeth cleaning. Veterinary dentists often emphasize that the problems you cannot perceive with the naked eye in your dog’s mouth are the ones that can cause the most harm to your pet.
How Does the Dental Cleaning Process Work for Dogs?
Veterinary dentists don’t rely on dogs opening their mouths like humans do during dental check-ups. Instead, veterinary dentistry involves a complicated procedure that often requires the use of X-rays and anesthesia. As such, it’s crucial to take your dog to a licensed veterinarian for dog dental cleaning. While each dog is distinct, the process for dog dental cleaning is generally similar.
Anesthesia is a crucial component of veterinary dental care to ensure safe and effective procedures. Without anesthesia, X-Rays and cleaning under the gums cannot be performed on a conscious animal. Moreover, X-Rays aid in detecting any teeth that may require removal. Some facilities exploit clients’ concerns about anesthesia and offer dog dental checkups and cleanings without it. However, these procedures only eliminate visible grime from your pet’s mouth, which is insufficient in promoting dental health.
Before administering anesthesia, the veterinarian typically conducts blood tests to determine the safety of anesthetic drugs for your pet. Once your dog is under anesthesia, cleaning its teeth is akin to your dental cleaning at the dentist’s office. Various instruments are utilized to detect and eliminate all plaque and tartar from your dog’s mouth. Finally, your dog’s teeth are polished.
Typically, dental X-rays are obtained following plaque removal and polishing. An X-ray technician captures oral X-rays of your canine companion to detect any underlying issues that may not be easily visible. This is an essential aspect of the teeth cleaning procedure, as numerous hazardous problems related to inadequate oral hygiene in dogs are located beneath the gum line, within the teeth and gums.
What is the Recovery Process After My Dog’s Cleaning?
After being put under anesthesia, your dog will need to recover at the vet’s office for a few hours. During this time, the vet will closely monitor your pet to ensure that no complications arise from the procedure. Once your dog can walk on its own, the vet will notify you that it is time to pick up your furry friend. Upon arriving home, your dog may exhibit sleepiness for a few hours, but this is considered a normal side effect of the anesthesia. It is not uncommon for dogs to feel stressed after a dental cleaning because of the anesthesia and uncertainty of the process.
If your dog had any teeth extracted, the vet may prescribe additional pain medication and recommend feeding your pet soft food during the healing process. If you have any questions about your pet’s specific recovery plan, do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian. After a few hours, your dog should have a normal appetite and return to its usual self. However, if you notice any abnormalities or have concerns, it is essential to contact your vet immediately for guidance.
What is the best way to clean a dog’s teeth?
Utilizing pet-specific toothpaste is imperative in maintaining your pet’s dental hygiene after a professional cleaning. This simple step can aid in preventing tartar buildup and halitosis until their next appointment. It is crucial to avoid human toothpaste, as it may contain harmful substances such as xylitol and fluoride that can be toxic to pets.
How can I get plaque off my dog’s teeth naturally?
What are the benefits of dog teeth cleaning?
- Prevent Tooth Loss – Over time, the structures supporting your dog’s teeth may become damaged or infected. Prolonged and severe damage can result in loose or missing teeth. It is crucial to prioritize your dog’s oral hygiene, particularly during their puppy stage.
- Eliminate Bad Breath – Regularly cleaning your dog’s teeth can prevent the development of unpleasant odors. Otherwise, food particles that adhere to their teeth and gums will form plaque.
- Avoid Periodontal Disease – Tartar left on your dog’s teeth can lead to gum inflammation and infection. This can cause the gums to recede, making the teeth and gums more susceptible to issues like gingivitis and tooth loss.
- Prevent Pain – Dental disease can cause discomfort for both dogs and humans. By maintaining your dog’s dental health, you can prevent oral pain.
- Prevent Organ Damage – Plaque-causing bacteria can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. This process, known as bacteremia, can result in organ damage and illness in dogs.
What Is The Cost of a dog dental cleaning ?
Teeth cleanings performed by general practitioners can have a price range of $250 to $900, and this may or may not cover extractions. Veterinary dentists usually charge higher fees due to their specialized training, advanced equipment, and use of anesthesia. The cost of a typical service, which includes x-rays, exams, and cleanings, starts at $800 and can go up to $1,300.