Dental Cleaning Cost for Dogs

Teeth are important windows into the health of any carnivore. They play an important role in the lives of animals. Veterinarian visits and dental cleaning cost for dogs will add up.

Dogs are carnivores, which means keeping their teeth healthy is vitally important. Fortunately, your regular vet should be able to provide your dog with annual dental care.

The Dental Cleaning Process

Your vet should thoroughly exam your dog’s teeth. When doing so, they will check for any broken teeth, bleeding gums, discoloration, or signs of infection.

Additionally, your vet should also monitor your dog to see if she has any tender spots. These can be signs of  cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems.

If your dog shows signs of dental decay, the solution is not to simply pull the tooth! Dogs need their teeth and removing a dog’s tooth can be costly, painful, and have long term health effects.

Instead, dogs with signs of cavities need dental x-rays just like people do. If your dog’s veterinarian finds areas of concern, she should x-ray them.

After treating any problem areas, your vet should give your dog a thorough dental cleaning that includes the removal of any plague or tartar buildup.

This cleaning can often allow your vet to discover problems that were hidden by dirty, yellowing teeth.

While dental cleanings can be pricey, this annual dog care expense is one you should not neglect because of the overwhelmingly positive impact it can have on your dog’s health.

Dental Consultation

Your veterinarian should talk to you at each annual appointment about the at-home dental care your dog is receiving. A good veterinarian will make recommendations for appropriate chew toys.

Additionally, they will explain the types of diets that improve dog dental health. They’ll also show you how to brush your dog’s teeth.

During the consultation, you can address any other concerns you have about your dog, dental related or not.

Dental Cleaning Cost for Dogs

So how much does all of this cost? The prices can vary based on your location.

Most teeth cleanings that do not require anesthesia will be between $100 and $300. Dental cleaning using anesthesia can range from $500 upwards of $1,000.

Depending on your location, costs may be higher or lower than the average.

If your dog does need anesthesia, there are a few additional costs that may not be included.

  • Pre-anesthesia lab work will be required to ensure your dog is healthy enough to withstand the medication
  • Additional staff will be required to administer the medication
  • An endotracheal tube needs to be inserted, allowing your dog to breathe under the medication
  • Additional recovery time may be required and this adds to the amount of care your dog needs

Ideally, you should check with your veterinarian performing the cleaning to learn about everything included.

Dental Care At Home

Thought annual dental checkups are important, the care you provide your dog on a daily basis is ultimately what will determine the overall health of her teeth.

You need to brush your dog’s teeth at least once per week. You should also give her tough, natural chew toys rather than sugary synthetic toys.

There are healthy dog treats that help with dental care. Your dog will love them as a treat, and they will clean their teeth at the same time.

Consider feeding your dog raw, meaty bones a few times a week. Unlike cooked bones, raw bones are safe for dogs. Because they would be part of a dog’s diet in the wild, they can help to keep teeth in healthy condition.

Watch out for yellow or brown spots on your dog’s teeth. Also look for bleeding gums, or tentative or painful chewing. If you notice these, contact your veterinarian right away.

Prompt dental care can make a huge difference in the quality of life of a dog. Even if you’ve just had a dental checkup, call your vet!