Regular at-home dental care is essential, but sometimes your dog needs professional help to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Knowing when to visit the vet for dental care can save your dog pain, prevent serious health problems, and extend their quality of life.
In this final post of our series, we’ll explain when it’s time to get veterinary dental treatment and what to expect during a professional cleaning.
Why Professional Dental Care Is Important
Even with daily brushing and chews, tartar can build up below the gum line where home care can’t reach. This hidden plaque can cause infection, tooth loosening, and systemic health problems if untreated.
Veterinary cleanings:
- Remove plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line
- Allow vets to examine teeth and gums closely
- Detect early dental disease or oral tumors
- Often include dental X-rays to assess tooth roots and jawbone
When to Schedule a Vet Dental Visit
You should consider a professional dental exam and cleaning if your dog:
- Has persistent bad breath
- Shows visible tartar buildup or gum redness
- Has difficulty eating or shows signs of mouth pain
- Has loose or broken teeth
- Exhibits any warning signs we covered in blog #5
For puppies and young dogs with healthy mouths, the vet may recommend starting dental exams annually or biannually to establish a baseline.
What Happens During a Veterinary Dental Cleaning
Professional cleaning is done under general anesthesia to ensure safety and thoroughness. The procedure includes:
- Scaling and polishing of all teeth
- Examination of gums and teeth for disease or damage
- Dental X-rays to evaluate below the gum line
- Extraction of any damaged or infected teeth if needed
Post-Cleaning Care
After the cleaning, your vet will guide you on:
- At-home dental care routines
- Any medications if extractions were performed
- Follow-up exams
Routine veterinary dental care combined with at-home maintenance provides the best defense against dental disease.
Conclusion
Knowing when to see the vet for dental care is key to keeping your dog’s mouth — and overall health — in top shape. Professional cleanings aren’t just cosmetic; they prevent pain, infections, and serious health risks.