How Often Should I Get My Dog's Teeth Cleaned?

Good dental care isn’t just about fresh breath, as it is a big part of your dog’s overall health. Dental disease is one of the most common issues in dogs, and it can quietly develop over time without obvious symptoms. While you know that it’s important keep your dog’s clean, you might wonder how often you should get your dog’s teeth clean.

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean helps prevent plaque buildup, gum inflammation, and serious infections that can spread beyond the mouth. Here’s what to look for and why routine dental care is so important for dogs (and cats too).

Why Dental Health Matters for Dogs

Dental disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth. Over time, bacteria from untreated plaque and tartar can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys, leading to serious health problems. Many dogs don’t show obvious signs of discomfort until the disease is advanced, which is why regular dental care and checkups are necessary and advised. Which is why keeping your dog’s dental health in optimal condition is as important as regular veterinary visits.

A professional dental cleaning can remove plaque and tartar below the gumline, where at-home brushing can’t reach. Routine cleanings can help your dog live a longer, healthier life. It’s not that different from our getting our teeth cleaned by our dentist!

How Periodontal Disease Affects the Rest of the Body

Periodontal disease is an infection of the tissues that support your dog’s teeth. It typically begins with plaque that hardens into tartar over time. As the condition progresses, it affects the gums, ligaments, and bone around the teeth, causing pain, inflammation, and eventually tooth loss if untreated.

Even worse, when plaque hardens into tartar and bacteria settles below the gumline, it can enter the bloodstream. From there, they may travel to other organs, especially the heart, kidneys, and liver. This can lead to inflammation and infections in organs that are vital to your dog’s health.

Chronic dental infections have been linked to conditions such as heart valve disease, kidney inflammation, and liver problems. What starts as mild tartar buildup can progress into a serious health issue if left untreated. This is why early dental care isn’t just about teeth as it’s about protecting your dog’s entire body and overall health.

What Are The Signs of Dental Pain in Dogs?

Dogs are good at hiding their pain, so dental discomfort often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. Knowing what to look for can help you catch issues early.

Some of the most common signs of dental pain include:

•  Bad breath that doesn’t improve with brushing or dental chews

• Pawing at the mouth or rubbing the face on the floor

•  Reluctance to eat, especially dry food or hard treats

• Chewing on one side of the mouth or dropping food while eating

• Whimpering or pulling away when their mouth is touched

If your dog shows any of these signs, don’t assume that it is just part of the aging process. Dental pain can be severe and greatly impact their quality of life. A vet visit and professional cleaning may be exactly what your dog needs to feel better again.

At-Home Dental Care for Dogs

While professional dental cleanings are important, being proactive about your dog’s dental care at home is one of the best ways to keep your dog’s teeth healthy between vet visits. The most effective routine involves daily brushing your dog’s teeth at least a few times a week if possible as it can make a significant difference.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs or a finger brush if your pup is just starting out. Always use dog-safe toothpaste, and don’t ever use human toothpaste, which can contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Start slowly, rewarding your dog with praise or treats so brushing becomes a positive experience.

In addition to brushing your dog’s teeth, dental chews, toys, and water additives can help reduce plaque buildup. Regular home care can make professional cleanings less frequent and keep your dog’s smile (and breath) fresh.

The Importance of Dental Cleanings for Senior Dogs

Dental care becomes even more important as your dog gets older. Senior dogs are at a higher risk of developing periodontal disease, which can lead to pain, tooth loss, and infections that affect other organs. However, many pet parents worry about putting their older dog under anesthesia for a cleaning which is understandable.

While anesthesia always carries some level of risk, veterinarians take extra precautions with senior pets. This often includes pre-anesthetic bloodwork, careful monitoring during the procedure, and personalized anesthesia plans. For many dogs, a professional dental cleaning can actually improve their comfort, appetite, and quality of life, especially if painful dental disease is already present.

If you’re concerned about anesthesia, talk openly with your vet. Together, you can weigh the risks and benefits and create a plan that best supports your senior dog’s health.

When to Schedule a Professional Dental Cleaning

A good rule of thumb is to have your dog’s teeth checked by a veterinarian at least once a year. Some dogs, especially small breeds or those prone to dental issues, may need more frequent cleanings.

If you notice persistent bad breath, visible tartar, or signs of discomfort, don’t wait for your dog’s annual checkup. Getting ahead of dental disease can help avoid more serious health problems later on.

The Bottom Line: Healthy Teeth Mean a Healthier Dog

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean isn’t just about aesthetics or fresh breath as it is about their long-term health. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings can go a long way in preventing painful dental disease and protecting vital organs. If you’re unsure whether your dog’s teeth need cleaning, schedule a vet visit to determine if a cleaning is necessary for your dog.