Why Are Dental Cleanings Important for Dogs?

Many dog owners assume that dogs do not need dental care since they clean their teeth by chewing. Dental health is just as important for your canine companion as it is for you. Luckily, keeping your dog's teeth clean and healthy is surprisingly easy.

Canine Dental Cleanings

Dental cleanings are crucial to maintaining your dog's oral health. Poor dental health can lead to many issues. These include tooth decay, gum disease, and systemic health problems. Regular cleanings can help prevent these problems and keep your pup's teeth and gums healthy.

What Happens During Dental Cleanings for Dogs?

A veterinarian or a veterinary technician performs a canine dental cleaning. Its purpose is to clean and maintain a dog's teeth and gums. During a dental cleaning, a veterinarian or a veterinary technician will scale and polish your dog's teeth to remove plaque and tartar. 

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Tartar is a tough, calcified substance that can cause gum disease and tooth loss. Scaling and polishing help remove these substances and prevent dental problems.

Besides scaling and polishing, a dental cleaning may also include thoroughly examining your dog's teeth and gums. That allows your veterinarian to identify any issues needing treatment, such as cavities, infected teeth, or gum disease. 

It is important to note that dental cleanings take place under general anesthesia. That allows your veterinarian at Cochise Animal Hospital to thoroughly clean and examine your dog's teeth and gums without causing discomfort or stress.

Benefits of Canine Dental Cleanings

There are several benefits to having regular canine dental cleanings:

 

• Prevent Dental Problems

Dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar, the primary causes of tooth decay and gum disease. By preventing these problems, professional cleanings can help keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy and reduce the risk of dental issues.

• Maintain Overall Health

Poor dental health can lead to a range of problems. These include tooth decay, gum disease, and other health issues. Maintaining good dental health can help prevent these problems and keep your dog healthy.

• Improve Your Dog's Quality of Life

Dental problems can be painful for dogs and significantly affect their quality of life. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent dental issues and ensure your pup is comfortable and healthy.

• Prevent Bad Breath

Professional teeth cleanings can help improve your furry friend's breath by removing plaque and tartar that can cause bad breath.

Besides having regular dental cleanings, you can do several things at home to maintain your furry friend's dental health. These include brushing your dog's teeth regularly, providing dental treats and toys, and feeding them a balanced diet that includes wet food. Wet food contains moisture, which can help keep the mouth hydrated and reduce the risk of dental problems.

Regular dental cleanings are crucial to maintaining your dog's oral health and preventing dental problems. Veterinarians recommend that dogs have regular dental cleanings as part of their routine care. Consult your vet for specific recommendations on how often your dog should have a professional cleaning.

For more on pet dental cleanings, visit Cochise Animal Hospital at our Scottsdale, Arizona office. Call (480) 991-2858 to schedule an appointment today.