When Does Your Pet Need Professional Dental Care?
At-home dental care is essential, but even with regular brushing and dental treats, your pet may still need professional dental cleanings to prevent serious health issues. But how do you know when it’s time for a vet visit? In this guide, we’ll cover the signs that your pet needs a professional cleaning, what happens during the procedure, and how to find the right veterinary dental care near you.
Signs Your Pet Needs a Professional Dental Cleaning
According to the VCA Animal Hospitals, most pets need their first professional dental cleaning by age 3-5, depending on their breed and oral health routine. Your pet may need a vet’s help if you notice:
-
Persistent bad breath
-
Yellow or brown tartar buildup along the gumline
-
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
-
Difficulty chewing or loss of appetite
-
Pawing at the mouth or excessive drooling
-
Loose or missing teeth
If your pet is showing any of these signs, it’s time to consult a veterinarian about a professional dental cleaning.
What Happens During a Veterinary Dental Cleaning?
A professional pet dental cleaning is more than just brushing—it’s a thorough examination and treatment of your pet’s teeth and gums. Here’s what to expect:
-
Pre-Procedure Exam & Bloodwork – The vet will perform a physical exam and blood tests to ensure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia.
-
Anesthesia Administration – Pets must be placed under anesthesia for a proper deep cleaning, preventing stress and pain during the procedure.
-
Full Oral Examination & X-Rays – Vets use X-rays to check for hidden dental disease under the gums.
-
Scaling & Polishing – Plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth and under the gumline, then polished to prevent future buildup.
-
Extractions (If Needed) – Severely damaged or infected teeth may need to be removed to prevent pain and infection.
-
Post-Cleaning Care & Recovery – Your pet will be monitored as they wake up from anesthesia and given post-care instructions.
Is Anesthesia Safe for Pets?
Many pet owners worry about anesthesia, but modern veterinary medicine has made it safer than ever. Pre-procedure bloodwork and monitoring during the procedure help minimize risks. Your vet will discuss any concerns you have before the cleaning.
How Much Does a Professional Pet Dental Cleaning Cost?
Pricing varies depending on your pet’s plaque buildup, dental disease severity, and whether extractions are needed. Local veterinarians note that costs can range from $300 to $800, with additional fees for X-rays and tooth extractions. Regular at-home care helps reduce the frequency of these cleanings, saving you money in the long run.
Local Veterinary Dental Services
If your pet needs professional dental care, consider these trusted local veterinary clinics:
-
Radnor Veterinary Hospital – Located in Wayne, PA, offering comprehensive dental exams, cleanings, and extractions.
-
Devon Veterinary Hospital – Located in Devon, PA, Full-service veterinary care, including advanced dental procedures.
-
Pets First Veterinary Center – Located in Bryn Mawr, PA, Providing thorough dental cleanings and preventative care for pets of all ages.
Keep Up with Preventative Dental Care
Even if your pet has received a professional cleaning, at-home dental care remains essential. Maintain their oral health with:
-
Daily brushing with Oxyfresh or Tropiclean pet toothbrush kits
-
Dental chews like Greenies and Whimzees
-
Dental toys from Outward Hound and Oxyfresh
-
Water additives from Tropiclean and Oxyfresh to reduce plaque buildup
Learn more about these products at Braxton’s Dog & Cat Dental Supplies!
Schedule Your Pet’s Dental Exam Today
Regular professional cleanings, paired with consistent at-home care, help prevent painful dental disease and keep your pet healthy. Contact one of the trusted local vets listed above to schedule your pet’s dental cleaning today!
This concludes our three-part Pet Dental Health Series. Be sure to check out our previous blogs on Why Pet Dental Health Matters and At-Home Dental Care for Pets.