Can senior dogs get their teeth cleaned?

Senior dogs can benefit significantly from teeth cleaning; however, many owners have concerns that given their pet’s age, they may be doing more harm than good by putting their dog under anaesthesia to have their teeth cleaned.

How do you take care of a senior dog’s teeth?

A finger brush is usually easier than a regular toothbrush. You apply the toothpaste to the tip of the finger brush and then rub it onto the dog’s teeth. Periodontal powder that you add to your dog’s food can also prevent tartar buildup, especially with dogs who are unwilling to have their teeth brushed.

What is the average cost of having your dog’s teeth cleaned?

Typically, dog teeth cleaning costs between $300 to $700, which doesn’t include special treatments for periodontal disease or tooth extractions. These extras can add several hundred dollars to the total vet visit cost.

Is general anesthesia safe for older dogs?

A: Studies have shown that anaesthesia of cats and dogs older than 12 years of age does carry a slightly higher risk than anaesthesia of younger patients. However, it is not the case that we shouldn’t anaesthetise your pet if they are over this age; some older dogs and cats still look and act like puppies and kittens!!

Is it common for old dogs to have bad teeth?

Because dental disease in senior dogs is so common, caring owners should check their dogs’ mouths regularly for signs of tartar buildup, gingivitis and tooth decay. They should also monitor them for bad breath, bleeding gums, blood in their mouths, loose teeth, shrinking gums, and a reluctance to chew or eat.

What is anesthesia free dog teeth cleaning?

During a non-anesthetic dental cleaning your pet’s teeth are scraped above and below the gum line. All plaque and tartar are gently removed and rinsed away. This is a non-invasive procedure that is very similar to when we go to the dentist to get our teeth cleaned.

Why is dog dental cleaning so expensive?

The main reason a dog dental cleaning is an expensive procedure is because of the X-rays and anesthesia required for the procedure. “Dental X-rays are really important to assessing periodontal disease and the health of teeth below the gumline. Unfortunately, they require anesthesia,” says Dr. Brigden.

Should I have my senior dog’s teeth cleaned?

Older dogs tend to need more dental care than younger dogs, and the reason is simply that time, diet, and eating habits contribute to oral decay. So it’s always a good idea to have annual exams with your veterinarian if your dog is over seven years of age to make sure their teeth and gums are healthy.