Dogs are susceptible to dental problems just like humans, and just like humans, they need regular dental cleanings to maintain their oral health.
But how long does a dog dental cleaning take? This article will outline how long a typical dog dental cleaning takes, as well as what to expect from the procedure.
How Long is Dog Dental Cleaning?
A dog dental cleaning typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes. The actual time will depend on how many teeth need to be cleaned and how much tartar and plaque need to be removed.
During the cleaning, your veterinarian will use special tools to scrape away any tartar and plaque that has built up on your dog’s teeth. They may also use a water jet to clean below the gum line.
Factors that can affect the length of The Procedure
Although a dog dental cleaning typically lasts between 30 and 60 minutes, there are a few factors that can affect how long the procedure takes.
number of teeth that need to be cleaned
The actual time will depend on how many teeth need to be cleaned and how much tartar and plaque need to be removed. Your veterinarian will use special tools to scrape away any tartar and plaque that has built up on your dog’s teeth.
The amount of tartar and plaque that needs to be removed
Your veterinarian may also need to remove a significant amount of tartar and plaque from your dog’s teeth. This can be a time-consuming process, and it may take the veterinarian several minutes to clean each tooth.
If your dog’s dental cleaning is complete, you will need to take them home and care for their teeth properly.
This includes brushing their teeth every day with a toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. You may also need to give your dog oral hygiene supplements to help keep their teeth healthy.
Read our related article, How Much Human Toothpaste is Bad for Dogs? Discover if you can use your toothpaste for your dog, the health implications, and what to do if your dog swallows it.
Use of special tools like a water jet
The veterinarian may also use a water jet clean below the gum line. This will help to remove any plaque or tartar that is hidden below the gum line.
The Age and Health of your Dog
Dogs that are older or have health problems may take longer to clean. This is because the veterinarian will need to take extra care when cleaning their teeth.
Whether or not your dog has had a dental cleaning before
If your dog has never had a dental cleaning before, it may take a little longer for the veterinarian to clean all of their teeth. This is because they will need to take extra time to examine each tooth and make sure that it is clean.
Whether any extractions are required
Your dog’s dental cleaning may also require some extractions. This will depend on how bad the tartar and plaque buildup is on their teeth.
There may be other reasons for tooth extractions, such as broken teeth or trauma to your dog’s teeth or mouth.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Once your dog’s dental cleaning is finished, there are a few things you can expect.
Your veterinarian will give you some instructions on how to care for your dog’s teeth. They may recommend that you brush your dog’s teeth every day with a toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste.
You may also need to give your dog oral hygiene supplements such as dental treats to help keep their teeth healthy. Many vets also encourage the use of dental chew toys.
Here are some more things to be ready for.
Your dog may be a little sleepy
Dogs may become sleepy after a dental cleaning because of the anesthesia that was used during the procedure. This is normal and should pass within a few hours.
Your veterinarian should give you aftercare instructions on how to deal with the effects of the anesthetic.
Your dog’s teeth may be stained after the procedure
The anesthesia and other fluids used during the dental cleaning can cause your dog’s teeth to become stained. This is also normal and should fade within a few days.
Your dog may have some temporary gum recession after the procedure.
How long is the Recovery Process and After Care?
The recovery process after a dog’s dental cleaning can vary depending on how extensive the procedure was. In most cases, your dog will be sleepy and unsteady for a few hours after the procedure.
Your dog may also have some gum recession and his teeth may be stained. The teeth may also be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures for a few days after the procedure.
If your dog’s dental cleaning required any extractions, the recovery process will be a bit longer.
Conclusion
Dog dental cleanings can be a little daunting but they aren’t that time-consuming and they’re well worth the effort.
Not only will it save your dog from having to deal with any gum recession or teeth sensitivity in the future, but you’ll also have peace of mind knowing that your pup’s oral health is top-notch.
