Plaque and tartar build up on your pet's teeth over time and lead to gum disease, bad breath, pain and tooth loss. A professional dental cleaning removes tartar above and below the gumline.

Cleanings are done under anesthesia so we can clean thoroughly and safely, then polish the teeth to smooth the surface and slow new plaque. We'll also examine every tooth and recommend home care to keep your pet's mouth healthy.

What to Expect During Your Pet's Dental Cleaning

A professional cleaning involves several steps, all done while your pet is safely under anesthesia and closely monitored. Most pets go home the same day, and your vet will review the findings with you and explain any treatment provided. A typical cleaning includes:

  • Pre-anesthetic exam and bloodwork to help plan safe anesthesia
  • Scaling to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
  • Dental exam and charting of each tooth to note pockets, fractures or other problems
  • Dental X-rays to check the roots and bone
  • Polishing to smooth tiny scratches that can trap plaque
  • Treatment, such as extractions, if your vet finds problems

Caring for Your Pet After a Dental Cleaning

Your pet may be a little sleepy for the rest of the day as anesthesia wears off. Offer a small meal that evening, and expect your pet to return to their usual routine within a day or so. If teeth were extracted, your vet may recommend soft food for a while and send home pain medication.

Once teeth are clean, it's the perfect time to start or restart home care. Daily brushing with a pet-safe toothpaste helps slow new buildup. Call us if your pet won't eat, has ongoing bleeding, swelling of the face or seems painful. We'll let you know when your pet should come back for their next dental exam.

Questions about Dental Scaling & Polishing?

Call us or book an appointment online, and our team will help you decide on the next step for your pet.

Dental Scaling & Polishing: Frequently Asked Questions

Is anesthesia-free teeth cleaning a good option?
Anesthesia-free cleanings only scrape visible tartar and can't clean below the gumline, where dental disease does the most damage. They also can't include X-rays and may be stressful for pets. Most veterinary organizations recommend cleanings under anesthesia.
Is dental cleaning safe for older pets?
Age alone isn't a reason to skip dental care. Older pets often benefit the most, since dental pain and infection are common. Pre-anesthetic bloodwork, a tailored anesthesia plan and careful monitoring help keep senior pets as safe as possible.
Will my pet need teeth pulled during a cleaning?
Not always. If your vet finds teeth that are badly diseased, fractured or causing pain, removing them may be the best way to keep your pet comfortable. We'll do our best to discuss treatment options with you during or before the procedure.
Can my pet eat normally after a dental cleaning?
Most pets can eat a small meal the evening of the cleaning and go back to their usual diet the next day. If extractions were done, your vet may recommend soft food for a short time while the gums heal.

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