Your pet’s teeth may not always be top of mind, but dental care is essential to their health. Without proper attention, plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, painful infections, and even systemic health issues. The difference is clear: pets with healthy teeth and gums live on average 2–3 years longer than those with untreated dental disease.
What to Expect from a Veterinary Dental Cleaning
A professional cleaning does much more than freshen your pet’s breath. During the procedure, your veterinarian removes tartar from above and below the gumline, polishes the teeth, and carefully checks for concerns such as fractured teeth, gum disease, or oral tumors. These problems are impossible to fully detect or treat with brushing or anesthesia-free dental cleanings.
Start with a Free Dental Evaluation
We provide complimentary dental evaluations with our veterinary technicians. At this visit, your pet’s teeth and gums will be assessed, and a grade will be assigned to measure dental disease. If advanced disease is discovered, a veterinarian will need to step in, and antibiotics may be prescribed. In these cases, a doctor’s exam fee will be applied, and the appointment may be rescheduled to allow time for a detailed treatment plan.
Why Dental Health Is Critical
More than 80% of pets show signs of dental disease by the age of 3. The concern extends beyond the mouth, oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, leading to damage of the heart, liver, kidneys, and more. To ensure pets receive the care they need, we include dental cleanings in our Preventative Care Wellness Plans, which offer flexible low monthly payments.
Signs of Dental Problems
Schedule an evaluation if you observe any of these symptoms:
- Persistent bad breath
- Swollen, red, or bleeding gums
- Tartar buildup (yellow or brown discoloration)
- Missing, loose, or fractured teeth
- Blood in saliva, water bowls, or on chew toys
- Eating more slowly or chewing only on one side
- Weight loss or reduced appetite
- Avoiding dry kibble, treats, or chews
- Drooling excessively
- Rubbing the face or pawing at the mouth
- Swelling around the mouth or jaw
How Often Should You Schedule Cleanings?
Your veterinarian will recommend the best frequency based on your pet’s age, breed, and dental health, but here are general guidelines:
- Pets age 3+: Once a year.
- Small breed dogs: Every 6–9 months, as they are prone to quicker tartar buildup.
- Pets on wet food diets: Every 6 months, since wet food doesn’t clean teeth like kibble.
- Senior pets (6+ years): More frequent cleanings due to higher risk of gum disease.
- Pets already diagnosed with dental disease: May require more frequent visits.
Maintaining Oral Health at Home
Daily care helps keep teeth healthy between professional cleanings:
- Brush your pet’s teeth three times weekly with pet-safe toothpaste.
- Offer dental chews such as Oravet or Greenies.
- Add Plaque Off powder to meals daily to fight tartar buildup.
- Use dental wipes or water additives for added support.
- Schedule routine wellness exams to stay on top of dental changes.
The Bottom Line
Most pets benefit from professional dental cleanings once per year, though many need them more often. Clean teeth aren’t just about better breath, they’re about protecting your pet’s long-term health and happiness.
Call 435.734.2900 or book online to schedule your pet’s dental cleaning.
For pricing and details, visit our Cat Pricing and Dog Pricing Pages.