Just like humans, dogs require professional teeth cleanings to maintain their dental health. While regular at-home dental care is essential, scheduling a veterinarian’s professional teeth cleaning for your canine companion every year or two is crucial for their overall well-being. This blog post from DJANGO Dog Blog explores the process of dog teeth cleaning, the average costs involved, and provides tips for dog owners to promote their pets’ dental health at home.
The Dental Cleaning Process for Dogs:
1. Preliminary Dental Exam: Before the actual cleaning, a preliminary dental exam is conducted with the owner present. During this examination, the vet looks for various dental issues, including bite misalignment, damaged teeth, extra teeth, bad breath (gingivitis), plaque or tartar buildup, swollen gums, and tooth discoloration. It’s also an opportunity for owners to discuss any concerns or questions about anesthesia, dental health, or the cleaning process.
2. Mandatory Pre-Op Lab Work: After the preliminary exam, pre-operative lab work is ordered to ensure that the dog is healthy enough to undergo anesthesia. Assuming the dog is in good health, the dental cleaning can be scheduled.
3. Teeth Cleaning and Exam: The dog is put under anesthesia for the entire teeth cleaning and exam procedure. During this time, the veterinarian takes x-rays of the dog’s mouth, measures the depth of tooth pockets, performs a comprehensive tooth-by-tooth examination, and charts the findings. Tartar and plaque are removed from the teeth and below the gum line using hand and ultrasonic scalers. The dog’s teeth are then polished to eliminate microscopic scratches, and fluoride and dental sealant are applied to prevent tooth decay.
Duration of Anesthesia: Dogs are typically under anesthesia for 1 to 1.5 hours during a professional teeth cleaning, assuming no extractions are required. If tooth extractions are necessary, the procedure can last as long as 2-4 hours. The duration depends on the dog’s size and the number of extractions required.
Costs of Dog Teeth Cleaning:
Estimated Cost for Teeth Cleaning and Exam:
Professional teeth cleaning for dogs typically ranges from $250 to $750 when performed by a general practitioner veterinarian. The cost varies based on geographic location, the dog’s size (larger dogs often incur higher costs due to longer cleaning times), and the veterinarian’s reputation. For reference, the average cost of canine teeth cleaning in New Jersey is approximately $500, excluding additional expenses associated with the cleaning process.
Additional Costs to Consider:
In addition to the teeth cleaning and exam, there are other expenses related to dental care, including:
- Initial consultation and preliminary dental exam: $50-100
- Pre-operative lab work to assess anesthesia suitability: $100-250
- Tooth extractions, if required during cleaning: $300-500+
- Aftercare medications, root canals, or advanced imaging, if needed.
For those seeking the expertise of a board-certified veterinary dentist (DAVDC) at a high-end facility, professional dog teeth cleanings can cost as much as $4,000. Board-certified veterinary dentists are trained in anesthesia, pain management, and interpreting CT scans and x-rays.
Does Pet Insurance Cover Dog Teeth Cleanings?
Standard pet insurance typically does not cover professional teeth cleanings for dogs. However, some pet insurance companies offer wellness add-ons that include dental care coverage, usually up to $1,000 per year. This can be particularly beneficial for senior dogs or those with poor dental health.
Promoting Dog Dental Health at Home:
While professional teeth cleanings are essential, there are several actions dog owners can take at home to support their pets’ dental health:
- Use a Dog Toothbrush: Brush your dog’s teeth daily using a pet-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste. Choose toothpaste formulated for dogs to avoid harmful ingredients.
- Provide Dog Dental Chews: Offer dental chews designed to remove plaque and tartar from your dog’s teeth. Look for all-natural options with enzymatic properties.
- Use Dog Mouthwash: Add a dog mouthwash to your dog’s water bowl to help fight plaque and tartar while freshening breath.
- Try Dog Dental Wipes: Consider disposable dental wipes for dogs as an alternative to brushing, especially if your dog is resistant to brushing.
Conclusion: Professional dog teeth cleanings are an essential part of maintaining your pet’s oral health and overall well-being. While they may involve upfront costs, they can save you thousands in future veterinary bills and promote your dog’s long-term health. Consult your veterinarian about scheduling a professional teeth cleaning for your dog and follow the recommended home care practices to ensure your furry friend enjoys a healthy smile for years to come. If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
