Do dogs really need dental cleanings?
YES, They Do! AND HERE ARE 6 REASONS WHY:
We all know how vital dental care is for us humans, right? Well, guess what? Our sweet and adorable furry companions also require some pearly white pampering! Yep, just like we brush our teeth daily to keep tooth decay and gum disease at bay, it's equally crucial that we give our dogs' oral health the TLC it deserves.
Now, let's dive into six compelling reasons why dog dental care is a must for all the loving pet parents out there. Trust us, once you grasp the significance of this furry-friend dental care business, you'll be wagging your tail in joy!
1. Happy Doggo, Happy Life: Ensuring your pup's dental health not only keeps them smiling but also impacts their overall well-being. By preventing dental issues like tooth decay, loss, and gum disease, you're enhancing their quality of life, making them jump and play with renewed energy and happiness.
2. Fresh Kisses for Miles: Admit it, there's nothing better than receiving slobbery kisses from your beloved furry pal. And you know what makes those smooches even sweeter? Fresh breath! By taking care of your pup's oral hygiene, you can say goodbye to unpleasant doggy breath and welcome sweet and fresh kisses with open arms (or paws!).
3. No More Nasty Plaque Parties: Just like plaque can wreak havoc on our teeth, it can do some serious damage to your doggo's chompers too. Regular brushing helps prevent the buildup of plaque, keeping those teeth sparkling clean and free from cavities. So, let's throw a plaque-free party and celbrate those healthy pearly whites!
4. Save Money, Save Cuddles: Taking care of your dog's oral health may seem like an extra expense, but trust us, it's an investment that pays off in the long run. By preventing dental issues through regular care, you're avoiding costly treatments down the road. So, with a little dental care, you'll have more money in your pocket for extra cuddles and treats!
5. Avoid Nasty Tooth Paws-tractions: Imagine your pooch experiencing tooth pain and discomfort. Uh-oh, it's a heartbreaking thought, isn't it? By prioritizing dental care, you can prevent toothaches, tooth loss, and other dental problems that might lead to your furry friend feeling downright paw-ful. So let's keep those canines shiny and healthy, promoting lots of tail-wagging and no paw-ful tooth-tractions!
6. Lifelong Friendship: The ultimate reason to prioritize dog dental care is the precious companionship you cherish with your furry buddy. By investing in their oral health, you're ensuring they stay by your side for many happy and healthy years to come. Nothing compares to the bond between a pet parent and their loyal furry companion, and proper dental care helps strengthen that bond even further.
So, grab your seat, cuddle up with your pup, and let's dive into the wonderful world of doggy dental care! By giving their teeth the attention they deserve, you're not only keeping their smile shining bright but also showing them just how much you love and care for their well-being.
Remember, a healthy mouth leads to a happy tail that never stops wagging!
How do I know my dog needs dental Cleaning?
Signs that Indicate Your Dog Needs Dental Cleaning
1. Visual Signs: Examine your dog's teeth and gums regularly. Look out for any of the following visual cues:
Yellow or brown discoloration on the teeth
Tartar buildup on the teeth (hard, pitted material)
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
Loose or missing teeth
Unusual growths or masses in the oral cavity
2. Bad Breath
3. Evaluation by a Vet: Regular veterinary check-ups should include an assessment of your dog's dental health. During these examinations, the vet will evaluate the condition of your dog's teeth and gums, looking for signs of dental issues. They may also perform a comprehensive oral exam to identify any underlying concerns that require attention.
What’s Included in a Dog Teeth Cleaning COTS?
The cost of cleaning dogs’ teeth typically includes:
Anesthesia: The dog is safely placed under anesthesia via sedation and a tracheal breathing tube is positioned. Anesthesia is the safest method for keeping water out of the airway, is not stressful or painful, and allows for complete exam and treatment.
Oral exam: A tooth-by-tooth exam is done, which includes measuring the gum pocket for periodontal health; checking for fractured teeth, cavities, and loose teeth; and evaluating other oral structures.
Scaling and polishing: Scaling removes plaque and tartar above and below the gum line and is always followed by polishing to smooth the surface of the teeth.
Sometimes dental x-rays are optional. However, they are necessary to fully assess the teeth, as they can show your veterinarian any bone loss, dead teeth, oral cancers, infections, or cysts. Taking x-rays before and after dental extractions is the standard of care. The time it adds to anesthesia is insignificant compared to the benefit it provides.
How Much Is Dog Teeth Cleaning?
The cost of a dental procedure including anesthesia varies widely and depends on the services provided (for example, tooth extractions increase the cost of your cleaning)
Teeth cleanings can range from $400-$1000+ which may or may not include extractions. Nerve blocks, extractions, medications, advanced imaging such as CTs, and root canals will increase the price.
How Often Do Dogs Need Their Teeth Cleaned?
The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends a dog’s first dental cleaning should be when they’re 1-2 years old for small- and medium-size dogs and 2-3 years old for large dogs.
Small dogs need a cleaning every year. Their small mouths are prone to gingivitis and dental disease because of crowding (dogs have 42 teeth in those little mouths!). Brachycephalic dogs (flat-face breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers) also are prone to more advanced disease due to their abnormal bites and crowded teeth. Larger dogs can usually have 1.5-2 years between cleanings, but they still need to have their mouths examined at their yearly checkups.
Signs that your dog needs a professional cleaning include:
Bad breath
Bleeding, redness, or swelling of the gums
Having a hard time picking up food
Dropping food while eating
Loose teeth