We normalize “doggy breath,” but that smell can actually be a sign of disease.
Bad breath in dogs comes from an overgrowth of bacteria releasing foul-smelling compounds that can damage the gums. The gums can become inflamed as gingivitis develops, eventually leading to periodontal disease.
The best way to prevent dental disease is having your pets’ teeth regularly cleaned and examined by your veterinarian. This cleaning removes plaque and tartar above and below the gumline, treating gingivitis and giving your dog better breath.
Let’s look at how much dog dental cleaning costs and why dog dental cleanings are so important.
Have you ever wondered if all those vet recommendations for doggy dental cleanings are just a money grab? I used to think that way too! After all, wolves in the wild don’t get their teeth brushed, right? Well, as a dog owner for over 15 years, I’ve learned some surprising truths about canine dental health that changed my mind completely.
In this article I’m going to break down everything you need to know about dog dental care – from whether it’s really necessary to what happens if you skip it plus some practical tips for keeping those canine chompers clean at home.
The Truth About Dog Dental Myths
Let’s address the big question right away: Yes, dogs absolutely need dental care, despite what some pet owners believe.
Has anyone ever told you that dogs don’t need dental care because they keep their teeth clean naturally by chewing? Unfortunately for our furry friends, this popular belief is completely false Dental health is just as important for dogs as it is for humans
Just like us, dogs develop plaque on their teeth that hardens into tartar. Over time, this buildup can lead to a host of serious health problems that go way beyond just stinky breath.
What Happens If You Don’t Clean Your Dog’s Teeth?
When dog’s teeth aren’t regularly cleaned, several problems can develop:
- Gingivitis – inflammation of the gums that can cause redness, swelling, and bleeding
- Periodontal disease – destruction of the tissues surrounding the teeth
- Bad breath – often the first sign owners notice
- Tooth decay – painful cavities that can lead to infection
- Tooth loss – teeth becoming so loose that they could fall out
- Systemic health issues – bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, kidneys, and liver
According to the content from Emancipet, periodontal disease can affect up to one in three dogs before they even reach the age of three! That’s way more common than most pet parents realize.
How Often Should Dogs Get Their Teeth Cleaned?
Most veterinary dentists recommend professional teeth cleanings once a year for most breeds. However, smaller breeds may need twice-yearly cleanings to prevent tooth loss.
The first professional cleaning is typically recommended when dogs are around 2-3 years of age. Small breeds may need their first cleaning as early as two years of age. Waiting longer can increase the risk of periodontal disease and the need for tooth extractions.
At Emancipet, they focus their dental services on older dogs who already have dental disease due to high demand, but ideally, you shouldn’t wait until problems are visible.
What Happens During a Professional Dog Dental Cleaning?
A professional dental cleaning for dogs is much more involved than you might think. It’s not just a quick scrape and polish!
Here’s what typically happens:
- Pre-anesthesia blood work – To ensure your dog can safely undergo anesthesia
- Anesthesia – Yes, dogs need to be fully anesthetized for proper cleaning
- Comprehensive cleaning – Removing plaque and tartar both above AND below the gum line
- Dental X-rays – To identify issues not visible to the naked eye
- Polishing – Just like at your dentist!
- Possible extractions – If teeth are severely damaged
The entire process, including pre-procedure work and recovery, can take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours, though the actual cleaning usually lasts about 30-45 minutes (up to 2 hours if extractions are needed).
Is Anesthesia for Dental Cleaning Safe?
One of the biggest concerns pet parents have is about putting their dog under anesthesia for a dental cleaning. It’s a valid worry!
According to The Faithful Dog, approximately 1 in 2,000 healthy dogs die under anesthesia each year. While this risk exists, anesthesia has come a long way in terms of safety. Proper pre-operative blood work and constant monitoring before, during, and after the procedure significantly reduce risks.
It’s also important to note that so-called “anesthesia-free dentistry” is not considered an acceptable alternative by veterinary dental experts. The American Animal Hospital Association’s 2019 Dental Care Guidelines explicitly state that anesthesia-free dentistry is neither safer nor sufficiently comparable to proper cleaning under anesthesia.
Why Are Dog Dental Cleanings So Expensive?
Dog dental cleanings typically cost between $300 to $700, not including special treatments for periodontal disease or tooth extractions, which can add several hundred dollars more.
The main reasons for the high cost are:
- The need for anesthesia and monitoring equipment
- Dental X-rays
- Specialized training for veterinary staff
- The time involved (several hours)
While the cost can be shocking, consider it an investment in your dog’s overall health and comfort. Preventative dental care is almost always less expensive than treating serious dental disease later.
At-Home Dental Care Options
Professional cleanings are essential, but there’s a lot you can do at home to maintain your dog’s dental health between visits:
1. Toothbrushing
Daily brushing with dog-specific toothpaste is the gold standard. NEVER use human toothpaste as it contains ingredients like xylitol that are toxic to dogs. Brushing helps remove food particles and bacteria before they can form plaque.
2. Dental Chews and Treats
Products like Greenies and Dentastix can help reduce tartar, though opinions on their effectiveness vary. In independent testing, Greenies have been shown to reduce tartar accumulation by about 60% when given daily.
Between Greenies and Dentastix, some sources suggest Greenies may be the better option with their all-natural formula and variety of treats available.
3. Alternative Options
If your dog absolutely won’t tolerate brushing, consider:
- Doggy dental spray
- Coconut oil (has natural antibacterial properties)
- Dental wipes
- Oral care gel
- Raw bones (under supervision)
- Dental water additives
Remember that these alternatives aren’t as effective as brushing but are better than nothing!
Is It Too Late to Start Dental Care?
Many pet owners worry that it’s too late to start dental care if they’ve neglected it for years. Good news – it’s NEVER too late to start caring for your dog’s teeth!
If you haven’t brushed your dog’s teeth in years, they likely have tartar buildup that will require professional cleaning. But once that’s done, you can maintain their improved dental health with regular home care.
For dogs with existing tartar, you might notice black stuff on their teeth. This is typically hardened dental plaque or tartar, which usually appears yellow, orange, or brown along the gum line or on the insides of the teeth.
When to Get Worried About Your Dog’s Teeth
If your pet exhibits any of these signs, it’s time for an immediate dental check:
- Discolored or broken teeth
- Excessive bad breath
- Reduced appetite
- Bloody drool
- Pawing at the mouth
- Difficulty eating
Don’t wait for your dog’s annual checkup if you notice these symptoms – they indicate your dog may be in pain!
My Personal Experience
I didn’t take my Lab’s dental health seriously until he was 5 years old and started having terrible breath. When I finally took him for a cleaning, the vet found significant periodontal disease that required three extractions! Since then, I’ve been religious about brushing his teeth three times a week and getting annual cleanings.
The difference in his overall energy and happiness is noticeable. Plus, no more dragon breath when he wants to give kisses! The initial investment in dental care has saved us money on more extensive dental work, not to mention spared my buddy from unnecessary pain.
The Bottom Line: Yes, Dogs Really Do Need Dental Care
The evidence is clear – dogs absolutely need dental care, including both at-home maintenance and professional cleanings. Neglecting your dog’s teeth can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even contribute to serious health problems affecting major organs.
While the cost and need for anesthesia might seem daunting, the alternatives are worse: a pet in pain and potentially more expensive emergency care down the road.
Start with a dental exam at your next vet visit, establish a home care routine that works for you and your dog, and commit to regular professional cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian.
Your dog can’t brush their own teeth or tell you when they’re hurting – it’s up to us as responsible pet parents to take care of their dental health. Trust me, both you and your fur baby will be happier for it!
Disclaimer: I’m not a veterinarian. This article is based on research and personal experience. Always consult with your veterinarian about your individual dog’s dental care needs.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dog Teeth Cleaning Costs?
Not all pet insurance policies will cover dental costs.
If your pet was diagnosed with dental disease prior to acquiring the policy, the procedure could be excluded as a pre-existing condition.
Root canals and extractions can also vary from policy to policy.
Be sure to know your coverage prior to scheduling a dental procedure, as most policies do not reimburse pet parents until after the procedure.
Find a CarePlus insurance plan to match your pet’s needs
Learn about CarePlus, insurance plans with exclusive Chewy benefits
Pet insurance that can cover Rx costs and more
When is a DOG Too old for a Dental Cleaning?
FAQ
Is it worth getting dog’s teeth cleaned?
What if I don’t get my dog’s teeth cleaned?
If you don’t brush your dog’s teeth, they can develop plaque, which hardens into tartar, leading to gum disease, painful infections, tooth loss, and bad breath. More seriously, bacteria from gum disease can enter your dog’s bloodstream, affecting and damaging vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver, and potentially shortening their lifespan.
At what age should you stop getting your dog’s teeth cleaned?
What dog breeds need more teeth cleaning?
Toy breeds – These include dogs like Yorkies and Poodles. Their delicate teeth and jaws put them at high risk for developing tooth decay and periodontal disease. Brachycephalic breeds – Brachycephalic breeds include dogs like Pugs, Shi Tzus, and Bulldogs.