How Long Does It Take for A Dog To Recover From Teeth Cleaning?

Your dog's oral health is an important part of their overall health. Dogs usually begin to show signs of periodontal disease (gum disease) around 3 years old. Early onset of dental disease can have serious negative effects on their long-term health.

Oral hygiene at home, combined with dental care, can go a long way toward helping your dog keep his teeth clean and controlling plaque and tartar buildup. Still, the best way to ensure your pup's oral health is clean is to take your dog to the veterinarian for an annual dental exam and hygiene cleaning.

What happens during a dog's dental cleaning appointment?

To help prevent your dog from developing cavities and periodontal disease, our Huntersville veterinarian recommends taking your dog to the dentist at least once a year, and more often if they have more severe or recurring dental problems.

At your pet's dental appointment, your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive oral exam on your dog and check for signs of dental problems.

Next, your pet will be safely sedated and your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive dental exam on your dog and take complete charts (just as your dentist would during your exam).

While your veterinarian has your dog safely and comfortably under anesthesia, they will thoroughly clean and polish your pup's teeth, both above and below the gum line. They will probe and x-ray the teeth, then to help prevent future decay and damage, we use a fluoride treatment to prevent plaque buildup before applying dental sealants.

If your dog has advanced periodontal disease, your veterinarian will work with you to develop a treatment plan to help return your dog's mouth to a pain-free and healthy state.

How long does it take for a dog to recover from a dental cleaning?

All dogs are different, but you can expect your puppy to begin to recover from anesthesia within a few hours, although in some cases it may take 24-48 hours to fully recover. During this time, your dog may appear lethargic and have a poor appetite.

How much does a dog dental cleaning cost?

The cost of a dog dental cleaning varies based on a number of factors, including the size of your dog, the condition of your dog's teeth, where you live, and your personal veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian to get an accurate estimate for cleaning your dog's teeth.

That said, more invasive and expensive procedures and surgeries can be avoided with regular veterinary dental care. Regular care will allow your veterinarian to take proactive steps to help avoid serious tooth decay and gum disease that can lead to pain, tooth loss, and jaw deterioration.

Are there risks with dog dental cleanings?

Any procedure performed under anesthesia carries risks, which is why your veterinarian will evaluate your pet to ensure they are healthy enough to withstand anesthesia. Your veterinarian may perform additional diagnostics to ensure that a dental exam while under anesthesia is safe for your pet.