Why Your Pet Needs Routine Dental Cleanings

Maintaining your pet’s oral health isn’t optional; it is essential to their overall well-being. Just like humans, dogs and cats are susceptible to dental diseases that can lead to pain, tooth loss, and other serious health problems (such as organ damage) if left untreated. Scheduling regular dental cleaning for pets and providing consistent at-home care is just as important for being a responsible pet owner as feeding and sheltering your four-legged family member. It prevents dental problems and helps to ensure that your pet leads a healthy, comfortable life.

The Prevalence and Impact of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition in dogs and cats. By the age of three, most pets show early signs of this disease, which, if not addressed, can progress and cause significant discomfort and health complications. The disease begins with plaque that hardens into tartar, leading to inflammation and infection of the gums and other supporting structures of the teeth. 

Advanced periodontal disease can result in tooth loss and has also been linked to systemic problems affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s because bacteria in your pet’s tooth plaque can enter their bloodstream and spread to these organs, potentially leading to organ damage and even otherwise preventable death.

Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings

Planning for veterinary dentistry (professional dental cleanings) for your pet is crucial for removing plaque and tartar buildup, especially below the gumline where most dental disease occurs. 

Each pet dental cleaning involves scaling to remove plaque and tartar, polishing to smooth tooth surfaces, and performing thorough examinations to identify any underlying issues. Radiographs (X-rays) are often necessary to assess the health of tooth roots and surrounding bone structures.

Dental cleanings can be expensive, but with a little financial planning, there are a variety of ways to make them more budget-friendly. Some options include:

• Purchasing pet insurance that covers dental cleaning (this means you will be reimbursed for upfront costs if you submit the proper paperwork to your pet insurance company)

• Choosing a veterinary clinic that offers bundled pet care packages, many of which include the cost of dental cleanings

• Setting aside a fund exclusively for covering the costs of your pet’s health needs and contributing to it regularly

Why Anesthesia Is Needed for Dental Procedures

Anesthesia is essential during dental cleanings to ensure the safety and comfort of your pet. It allows the veterinarian to perform a comprehensive examination and cleaning without causing stress or pain to the animal. Anesthesia also facilitates the use of dental instruments and radiographs, which require the patient to remain still. 

While anesthesia carries some risks, modern veterinary practices have made it safer than ever, with most pets recovering quickly and going home the same day. Your veterinarian can use a blood screening test to determine if your pet is a good candidate for anesthesia.

Risks of Anesthesia-Free Dental Cleanings

Anesthesia-free dental cleanings are not recommended, as they only address the visible surfaces of the teeth and neglect areas below the gumline where significant disease can reside. These procedures can give a false sense of security and may lead to undiagnosed and untreated dental issues. The American Veterinary Dental College and the American Veterinary Medical Association consider anesthesia-free cleanings to be below the recommended standard of care.

At-Home Dental Care Practices

In addition to professional cleanings, taking steps to provide dental care for your pet at home is vital.

• Brushing. Regularly brushing your dog’s teeth — and yes, also your cat’s teeth — with toothpaste designed for pets helps remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup.

• Dental chews and toys. These can aid in cleaning teeth and massaging gums.

• Specialized diets. Certain pet foods are formulated to promote oral health and can help reduce tartar and plaque buildup.

• Regular checkups. Routine veterinary exams (twice per year per pet) allow for early detection and management of dental issues. Remember that catching problems early can save you money and stress and improve outcomes for your furry family member.

Benefits of Regular Dental Care

Regular dental care offers numerous advantages:

• Prevention of dental disease. Just as they do for humans, routine cleanings help prevent the onset and progression of periodontal disease.

• Pain relief. Addressing dental issues early can alleviate pain and discomfort for your pet, improving their quality of life.

• Fresher breath. Maintaining oral hygiene reduces bad breath caused by bacteria in the mouth.

• Overall health. Good dental health contributes to the overall health of your pet, reducing the risk of systemic diseases.

• Cost savings. Preventive care can reduce the need for more extensive and expensive treatments in the future.

Recognizing Signs of Dental Problems

Be vigilant for these signs that could indicate dental problems in your pet:

• Bad breath. Persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease.

• Difficulty eating. Reluctance to eat or chew may indicate oral discomfort.

• Pawing at the mouth. This behavior can suggest pain or irritation.

• Red or bleeding gums. Inflamed or bleeding gums are signs of periodontal disease.

• Loose or missing teeth. This can result from advanced dental disease.

If you notice any of these signs, consult your veterinarian promptly for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Routine dental cleanings and consistent at-home care are essential for preventing dental disease and ensuring the overall health of your pet. By prioritizing dental health, you can help your pet lead a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life. Consult with your veterinarian to establish a dental care routine tailored to your pet's specific needs.

Help Pets in Need of Dental Care With FACE 

Established in 2006 by a group of veterinarians and concerned community members, the Foundation for Animal Care and Education (FACE) is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) public charity that provides financial grants for animal owners who are unable to afford the cost of their pet’s emergency or critical care.

FACE’s Community Outreach Program focuses on connecting underserved pet owners with resources for veterinary care and pet supplies. Since 2016, FACE has partnered with 14 different organizations to serve over 13,500 pet owners in San Diego County, many of whom are experiencing homelessness.

You can help support our Community Outreach Program by donating items from our Amazon Wish List; by donating your new, unused collars, leashes, blankets, unopened pet food, and other supplies; or by making a monetary donation here. If you’d like to get involved with this program, please email [email protected].

FACE’s work is as important for the animals saved and the mental health of the veterinarians who treat them as it is for the families spared the heartbreak of losing their best friend. Your tax-deductible donation funds life-saving veterinary care for beloved family pets. Give today!