More than 80% of dogs and cats over three years old suffer from some form of dental disease, yet most pet owners do not notice until they see bad breath or bleeding gums. Dental disease causes pain and infection and can also damage the heart, kidneys, and liver. In this guide, we cover veterinary dentistry, teeth cleaning, signs of dental disease, and prevention.
Why Pet Oral Health Matters
Healthy teeth and gums are about more than chewing. Oral infections can travel through the bloodstream to vital organs, causing heart, kidney, and liver disease. Tooth decay and gum disease are also a source of chronic pain that your pet cannot tell you about — many animals keep eating despite severe dental pain, and the problem stays hidden until it is advanced.
Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats
- Bad breath (the most common sign)
- Yellow or brown discoloration of teeth and visible tartar
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Excessive drooling
- Loss of appetite or difficulty chewing
- Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face on the floor
- Loose or missing teeth
If you see any of these signs, contact a veterinary dentistry clinic as soon as possible.
How Is Pet Teeth Cleaning Done?
Professional teeth cleaning (scaling) is performed at the clinic, usually under light anesthesia, so the animal is stress-free and the veterinarian can clean every tooth surface and below the gumline. The steps:
- Full oral examination: assessment of teeth, gums, and periodontal pockets.
- Safe anesthesia: with complete vital-sign monitoring (heart, oxygen, blood pressure).
- Ultrasonic scaling: removal of tartar and plaque from tooth surfaces and below the gumline.
- Polishing: smoothing tooth surfaces to slow plaque reformation.
- Fluoride treatment and final assessment: extraction of unsalvageable teeth if needed.
For more details, visit our Veterinary Dentistry service page.
Home Prevention of Dental Disease
- Daily brushing with pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste
- Dental chews and appropriate chew toys
- Dry food that helps clean teeth naturally
- Annual oral examination by a veterinarian
- Periodic scaling every 6–12 months depending on breed and condition
Small breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, and Poodles are more prone to tartar and gum disease and need extra care.
Cost of Pet Teeth Cleaning and Treatment
Costs vary with the number of teeth, the amount of tartar, the need for extraction, and the anesthesia type. At Farvardin Clinic, we give you an exact estimate before any procedure. Book an appointment online or contact us for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Veterinary Dentistry
Does my dog really need teeth cleaning?
Yes. Professional scaling is essential to prevent gum disease and tooth loss, especially in small breeds.
Is bad breath in pets normal?
No. Bad breath usually signals plaque buildup and gum disease and should be checked by a veterinarian.
Is teeth cleaning painful for pets?
No. Scaling is performed under light anesthesia, so the animal feels no pain.
How often should pet teeth be cleaned?
Depending on breed and condition, usually every 6–12 months.
Final Thoughts
Oral health is a vital part of your pet’s overall wellbeing. With regular examinations, daily brushing, and periodic scaling at a trusted veterinary clinic, you can save your pet from pain and serious disease. Book a dental check-up for your pet today.
