Dental cleanings at Pawsitive Care Vet Clinic keep your dog or cat’s mouth healthy, their breath fresher, and their whole body safer from infection that can spread from the gums. Most pets benefit from regular professional cleanings under anesthesia, where the veterinary team can clean above and below the gumline and check for hidden problems like loose teeth or bone loss.
Why Dental Cleaning Matters
Dogs and cats commonly develop plaque and tartar that lead to gingivitis, painful loose teeth, and infections affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys if not treated. Professional cleanings remove buildup that home care cannot reach, helping pets live more comfortably and often longer, healthier lives.
Do Dogs and Cats Need Dental Cleaning?
Yes—both dogs and cats need veterinary dental cleanings because they can develop periodontal disease as early as age three. Even pets that chew toys or eat dry food still accumulate plaque and bacteria below the gumline, which only professional scaling and polishing under anesthesia can fully address.
How Often Do Dogs and Cats Need Dental Cleaning?
For many adult dogs and cats, a professional dental cleaning about once a year is a common guideline, though small breeds and seniors may need them every 6–9 months. The veterinarian at Pawsitive Care will recommend a schedule based on age, breed, diet, and current dental health during each exam.
Is Dental Cleaning Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Modern veterinary dental cleanings are performed under monitored anesthesia so pets stay still and pain-free while teeth and gums are thoroughly treated. Pre-anesthetic exams and recommended lab work help assess organ function and anesthesia risk, while continuous monitoring keeps your pet as safe as possible throughout the procedure.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
Under anesthesia, the veterinary team examines every tooth, removes plaque and tartar above and below the gums, and polishes the teeth to slow future buildup. When needed, dental X-rays and extractions can be performed during the same procedure to treat painful or infected teeth before they cause more serious problems.
At-Home Dog and Cat Dental Care
After cleaning, at-home dental care—such as approved chews, rinses, or brushing—extends the benefits between professional visits. At Pawsitive Care Vet Clinic, each dental plan is tailored to your pet’s age, temperament, and medical needs, so keeping their mouth healthy feels realistic and achievable for your family.