When it comes to your pet’s health, dental care often doesn’t get as much attention as it should. But just like people, dogs and cats can develop plaque, tartar, gum disease, and even painful infections if their teeth aren’t cared for regularly. The good news? With the right routine and professional veterinary dental cleanings, you can keep your furry friend’s smile healthy for years to come. The average pet lives 2-3 years longer with healthy teeth than those with gingivitis and tartar!
During a professional cat or dog teeth cleaning, your veterinarian will remove tartar above and below the gumline, polish the teeth, and check for hidden issues like fractured teeth or oral tumors (things you can’t spot during at-home care). This is not something that just brushing alone can accomplish, or that anesthesia-free dental cleanings can do with your dog awake.
Did you know? We offer a free dental evaluation with one of our trained veterinary technicians. You can call to schedule today to get a free evaluation and grade of dental disease and tartar. If during the evaluation your dog or cat is found to have severe dental disease, a Doctor will need to assess your pet and may need to prescribe antibiotics. If this is required, a Doctor’s examination fee will be applied, and the appointment may need to be rescheduled based on the Doctor’s availability to go over a treatment plan for your pet’s advanced dental disease.
Why Pet Dental Cleanings Are So Important
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in cats and dogs, affecting more than 80% of pets by age 3. Without proper care, bacteria from the mouth can travel to other parts of the body, potentially leading to heart disease, kidneys and liver failure, and many other diseases. This is why we offer dental cleanings included in our Preventative Care Wellness Plans, offered with Low Monthly Payment Plan Options!
Signs It’s Time for a Dental Checkup Now!
Don’t wait for your pet’s next annual exam if you notice any of these signs of dental disease. If left untreated, dental disease can cause significant pain and lead to more serious (and costly) health concerns.
These signs could indicate advanced dental disease that needs immediate attention:
- Bad breath
- Inflamed, red, or swollen gums
- Bleeding gums or bloody saliva
- Discolored teeth (yellow or brown buildup on teeth)
- Loose or missing teeth
- Weight loss & decreased appetite
- Favoring or chewing on only one side of the mouth, or chewing more slowly
- Trouble eating or chewing, or dropping food from the mouth when chewing
- Blood in the water bowl or on chew toys
- Decreased interest in eating dry food, hard treats, or chews
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing or scratching at the mouth
- Swelling in areas around the mouth
At What Age & How Often Should You Schedule a Cat or Dog Dental Cleaning?
The ideal frequency for professional cleanings depends on your pet’s age, breed, lifestyle, and overall health. Most dogs and cats require their 1st dental cleaning around 2-3 years of age to keep their teeth in the best condition.
Senior pets (age 6 and above) or small breed dogs tend to have more dental problems and may require more frequent dental care, but here’s a general guideline:
- Dogs and cats: At least once a year is the standard recommendation for all pets age 3 or older.
- Small breed dogs: Every 6–9 months, as they’re more prone to plaque buildup and dental issues.
- Dogs & cats that eat wet food: Every 6 months. The crunchiness of dry food helps clean your pet’s teeth naturally, whereas wet food does not provide the same cleaning effect.
- Pets with existing dental disease: Your veterinarian may recommend more frequent cleanings to prevent progression.
- Older pets: Senior pets often need cleanings more often, as gum disease risk increases with age.
Don’t Forget At-Home Dental Care
Regular professional cleanings are key, but daily care at home makes a huge difference in maintaining your pet’s oral health.
Here are a few tips:
- Brush your pet’s teeth at least 3 times weekly with pet-safe toothpaste. Do not use human toothpaste as this cannot be swallowed.
- Offer veterinary approved dental chews such as Oravet or Greenies.
- Use Plaque Off, a simple powder that can be added to your pet’s food daily. This product bonds to tartar to help break it off of teeth and prevent new tartar from forming.
- Other veterinary approved dental wipes or water additives can also help reduce plaque.
- Schedule regular wellness exams so your vet can monitor your cat or dog’s dental health.
Bottom Line
Most pets benefit from a professional dental cleaning at least once a year, but your veterinarian can recommend the schedule that’s best for your furry friend. A clean mouth doesn’t just mean a prettier smile and better breath for those puppy kisses… it means a happier, healthier pet.
Ready to schedule your pet’s next dental checkup? Call us at (480) 945-8484 or request an appointment online today.
For more information about and pricing on our cat and dog dental cleanings, you can visit our dental page.