3 Signs It's Time for the First Pet Dental Cleaning

3 Signs It's Time for the First Pet Dental Cleaning

Every pet is different, and so is the time frame in which they need their teeth cleaned. Here are three signs that mean your furry friend would benefit from a professional pet dental cleaning.

#1: Your pet has persistent deciduous teeth

If your 6- to 7-month-old pet has persistent deciduous teeth, or baby teeth, that did not fall out when the adult teeth began to grow in, they need a professional dental cleaning now. Those baby teeth can cause a host of periodontal problems, such as trauma to the oral tissue and significant tartar accumulation.

#2: Your veterinarian tells you it's time

During your pet's wellness visits, our veterinarians will examine their mouth for signs of dental disease. If they say your furry pal needs a dental cleaning, that means they are seeing painful gingivitis, disease-causing tartar, or other serious periodontal problems.

#3: You notice bad breath or tartar accumulation on your pet's teeth

Even if your pet is not 3 years old yet—the age when up to 85% of pets have developed dental disease—they may already need a dental cleaning. Flip your pet's lip up and closely examine their teeth for yellow, brown, or gray plaque and tartar buildup.

Are you unsure when your pet should have their first dental cleaning? Schedule an oral exam with our team.