Dental care is one of the most important, and most overlooked, parts of keeping your pet healthy. Dogs and cats, just like people, can develop plaque, tartar, gum disease, and even painful infections when their teeth aren’t cared for properly. The difference good dental health makes is significant: pets with clean, healthy teeth live 2–3 years longer than those with untreated dental disease.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?
A veterinary dental cleaning is far more thorough than brushing at home. Your veterinarian removes tartar from above and below the gumline, polishes the teeth to prevent future buildup, and examines the mouth for hidden issues. Problems such as fractured teeth, periodontal pockets, or oral tumors are often invisible during at-home care but can be caught early during a professional procedure. This level of care cannot be provided with anesthesia-free cleanings.
Free Dental Evaluations Available
To help pet owners take the first step, we offer complimentary dental evaluations with our veterinary technicians. During the appointment, your pet’s teeth and gums will be checked, and you’ll receive a dental disease grade. If severe disease is identified, a veterinarian will need to examine your pet further. Antibiotics may be prescribed, and a doctor’s exam fee will apply. In these cases, the appointment may need to be rescheduled so the veterinarian has time to create a full treatment plan.
Why Cleanings Matter for More Than Just Fresh Breath
By age 3, over 80% of pets already show signs of dental disease. Left untreated, bacteria from dental infections can spread into the bloodstream, damaging the heart, kidneys, and liver. That’s why routine cleanings are essential, not just for oral health but for protecting your pet’s entire body. For added convenience, we include dental cleanings in our Preventative Care Wellness Plans, available with affordable monthly payment options.
Warning Signs of Dental Disease
Contact us right away if you notice these symptoms in your pet:
- Bad breath that lingers
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Yellow or brown tartar buildup
- Loose, broken, or missing teeth
- Bloody saliva, or blood in the water bowl/toys
- Chewing only on one side, dropping food, or eating more slowly
- Weight loss or decreased appetite
- Avoidance of crunchy food, treats, or chews
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face
- Swelling around the mouth or jaw
How Often to Schedule Dental Cleanings
The frequency depends on your pet’s age, breed, diet, and health. General recommendations are:
- Dogs and cats age 3+: Once yearly.
- Small breed dogs: Every 6–9 months due to faster tartar buildup.
- Pets eating wet food diets: Every 6 months since soft food doesn’t help clean teeth.
- Senior pets (6+ years): Often need more frequent cleanings due to gum disease risk.
- Pets with dental disease: May need a more aggressive schedule as directed by your veterinarian.
Daily Dental Care at Home
Between professional visits, you can help protect your pet’s teeth by:
- Brushing with veterinary-safe toothpaste three times a week or more.
- Offering approved dental chews like Greenies or Oravet.
- Using Plaque Off powder daily with meals to reduce tartar.
- Adding dental wipes or water additives for extra support.
- Keeping up with wellness exams to track oral health changes.
Final Word
Most pets need professional dental cleanings once per year, but many require them more often. With regular dental care, you’re giving your pet more than clean teeth, you’re giving them a healthier, longer, and happier life.
Schedule your pet’s dental cleaning today by calling 480.674.4104 or booking online.
For more details and pricing, visit our dental services page: https://empireranchvet.com/dental/.
