4 min read · January 8, 2025
Your dog's mouth tells a story. Here are the signs that say it's time for a professional cleaning.
1. Bad breath
A little 'dog breath' is normal. Foul, persistent odor is not: it's the smell of bacteria and infection.
2. Tartar buildup
Brown or yellow buildup along the gumline is hardened plaque. Once it's there, brushing won't remove it.
3. Red, inflamed gums
Healthy gums are pink. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums signal gingivitis: the early stage of periodontal disease.
4. Trouble eating or chewing on one side
Dropping food, slow eating, or favoring one side often means a painful tooth.
5. Loose or broken teeth
Always a problem, and almost always more painful than your dog lets on.
What to expect from a cleaning
A proper cleaning is done under anesthesia and includes full-mouth dental x-rays, scaling above and below the gumline, polishing, and any needed extractions. We send you home with photos, a dental chart, and a home-care plan.