Dental Health: Why Your Pet Needs Regular Cleanings
Discover how dental disease affects your pet's overall health and why professional cleanings matter.
The Hidden Problem
By age 3, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats have some form of dental disease. Unlike humans, pets can't tell us when their teeth hurt — they often suffer in silence, continuing to eat despite significant oral pain.
Why Professional Cleanings Cost More Than Human Dentistry
Pet dental cleanings require general anesthesia because animals won't sit still with their mouths open for 30-60 minutes. This means pre-procedure bloodwork to ensure your pet is safe for anesthesia, dedicated monitoring equipment and staff throughout the procedure, and a longer recovery observation period.
What's Included in a Dental Cleaning
A professional dental cleaning includes full oral examination under anesthesia, dental X-rays to check below the gumline, ultrasonic scaling and polishing, and a treatment plan for any issues found.
Prevention Saves Money
Regular dental care prevents extractions ($150-600 per tooth), treats gingivitis before it becomes periodontal disease, and avoids secondary infections that can affect the heart, kidneys, and liver.