How Often Should Pets Get Professional Dental Cleanings?

Every pet parent has received a huge dose of doggy or kitty breath at one point or another. While it’s (sort of) charming, that funky smell might have gotten you thinking about your pet’s dental health.

How often should your pet get professional pet dental cleaning? Is vet dental care actually all that important?

The team at The Whole Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center is here to share just how important it is to keep that stinky mouth happy and healthy. 

Why Professional Pet Dental Cleaning Matters

During a professional dental cleaning, your veterinarian does more than look at your pet’s teeth. The procedure involves removing tartar and plaque buildup that regular brushing can’t reach. And there are plenty of places regular brushing, dental chews, and water additives can’t reach—especially under the gum line.

When your veterinarian performs a thorough oral cleaning and exam, your pet reaps all the benefits. These include: 

• Gum disease prevention: Without plaque and tartar to thrive on, there’s a lower risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
• Better overall health: Thorough dental cleanings reduce bacteria that can harm vital organs like the heart and kidneys.
• Spot dental issues early: Identify problems like fractures or infections before they get worse.
• Gets rid of pain and stinky breath. Yep, it’s true—a cleaning can get rid of your pet’s oral pain from unresolved dental issues and do away with halitosis.
• Boosts quality of life: Regular dental cleanings mean easier eating and chewing, which equals scads of joy for your pup or kitty.

Now let’s talk about how often your pet needs a dental vet visit.

Pet Teeth Cleaning Frequency: What’s Recommended?

The ideal pet teeth cleaning frequency varies depending on your pet’s age, breed, and overall health. Most veterinarians recommend professional dental cleaning at least once a year for the average pet. But some pets need more frequent cleanings.

Small dog breeds like chihuahuas and dachshunds, for instance, are more susceptible to dental issues. They do best with cleanings every 6-9 months. Cats, especially older ones, can also develop dental disease easily and benefit from regular vet dental care. Pets with existing dental problems or predispositions may need more frequent visits, too.

The best course of action is to:

• Make a vet dental cleaning appointment ASAP, especially if your pet has never had one before
• Ask your veterinarian how often your pet needs a professional dental cleaning and oral exam

Aside from you, your veterinarian knows your pet’s health better than anyone. When you stick to your vet’s recommendations, your pet has an excellent chance of enjoying a healthy mouth—for life!

Veterinary Dental Care in Los Gatos, CA

If you live in the vicinity of Los Gatos or San Jose, CA, our friendly veterinary team at The Whole Pet Vet Hospital & Wellness Center is ready to help banish doggy breath for good. Call us at (408) 402-3071 to schedule a veterinary dental cleaning for your pet and get on track to good oral health!