As a pet owner, you must make sure your dog’s teeth are healthy and clean. But how often should a vet clean your dog’s teeth? Regular cleanings by a vet can help prevent dental disease and keep your dog’s mouth fresh and comfortable.
How Often Should You Schedule a Vet Cleaning?
The American Veterinary Dental College recommends professional cleanings by a vet once a year. However, if you have a dog breed that is prone to dental issues, you might need more visits. Your vet can determine the best schedule based on your dog’s breed, age, and dental health.
Small breeds, in particular, are more likely to develop dental problems due to their smaller mouths and crowded teeth. Larger breeds may not need to go for many cleanings, but it is always a good idea to take them for annual checkups.
Signs Your Dog Might Need a Cleaning Sooner
Even as you consider annual checkups, some signs might require you to take your dog for more frequent visits to the vet. These include:
- Bad breath — If your dog’s breath starts to smell bad despite regular brushing, get it to a vet. Bad breath is a sign of tartar buildup or gum disease.
- Red or swollen gums — Inflammation in the gums is a warning sign of gingivitis or other dental problems.
- Excessive drooling — If your dog is drooling more than usual, it could be due to a dental issue, such as infected gums or a tooth problem.
- Changes in eating habits — When you notice your dog appearing reluctant to chew or is avoiding hard food, it may indicate a problem with their teeth.
If you notice any of these signs, schedule a vet visit as soon as possible.
At-Home Dental Care for Your Dog
In addition to professional cleanings, you should also care for your dog’s teeth at home. Brushing their teeth regularly can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Do you have toothpaste and a toothbrush specifically for your pet? Never use human toothpaste, as it can be harmful to them.
Providing dental chews or toys designed for oral health can also help keep your dog’s teeth clean. However, even as you brush them at home, regular checkups at the vet are still necessary.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?
During a professional cleaning, your vet will examine your dog’s teeth and gums. They perform an X-ray to check for tooth root infections and bone damage. After that, the vet will clean your dog’s teeth, removing plaque, tartar, and any buildup.
In some cases, your dog may need to be put under anesthesia to ensure they stay still during the procedure. This is the case for dogs that need more extensive cleanings or are nervous around the vet.
After the cleaning, your vet will take a close look at your dog’s overall dental health. They will let you know if there is anything else that needs attention and recommend treatments if necessary. They might suggest some dental products or tips to keep your dog’s teeth healthy and strong in between visits.
For more on how to clean your dog’s teeth, visit Montana Veterinary Hospital & Boarding. Our office is in Bozeman, Montana. To book an appointment, call (406) 586-2019 today.
https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/how-much-does-dog-teeth-cleaning-cost
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/5NvL7qyhd2ZFXmHzSLT7RBC/the-trust-me-big-experiment-what-s-the-best-way-to-keep-your-pet-s-teeth-clean
