How Much Does It Cost to Get a Dog's Teeth Cleaned?
Maintaining your dog’s oral health is crucial for their overall well-being. Regular professional teeth cleaning can help prevent periodontal disease, tooth loss, pain, and even more serious health issues like kidney, liver, or heart problems. But how much should you expect to pay for this vital service? This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the costs and considerations of dog dental cleaning.
Average Cost of Dog Teeth Cleaning
The cost of a professional dog dental cleaning varies widely depending on several factors, including dog size, dental health status, region, and whether advanced procedures are needed.
- General cost range: $300–$1,000 at standard veterinary clinics
- Specialized dental services: $1,000–$3,000+, especially if X-rays or extractions are involved
- Low-cost clinics/nonprofits: Starting around $165, though additional fees may apply
These procedures typically include a pre-exam, anesthesia, scaling and polishing, and may include X-rays and extractions if needed.
What’s Typically Included in a Dog Dental Cleaning?
Veterinary dental cleanings often involve multiple steps and services, such as:
- Physical and oral examination
- Blood tests to ensure anesthesia is safe
- General anesthesia for thorough and pain-free cleaning
- Scaling and polishing to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline
- Dental X-rays to assess root and jaw health
- Charting any dental concerns
- Extractions if necessary
- Medication and post-procedure care
What Influences the Cost?
Several factors affect how much you may pay for dog dental cleaning:
- Size and weight of the dog: Larger dogs may require more anesthesia and time
- Disease severity: Advanced dental issues may require extractions or surgery
- Specialist vs. general clinic: Dental specialists typically charge more
- Advanced diagnostics: Additional fees for X-rays or other imaging
- Regional cost differences: Urban areas and certain regions may have higher fees
Optional and Additional Services
- Dental X-rays: Often $150–$250
- Tooth extractions: .$10–$60 per tooth, more for complex removals
- Medications and antibiotics: Post-procedure meds may add to cost
Anesthesia in Dog Dental Cleanings
Anesthesia is highly recommended because it allows the vet to perform a thorough cleaning and examination, including checking below the gumline and taking dental X-rays. Without it, many problems may go undetected. Although some providers offer anesthesia-free cleanings, these are typically limited to superficial plaque removal and are not endorsed as effective by veterinary organizations.
Recognizing When Your Dog Needs a Dental Cleaning
Some signs that your dog may require dental attention include:
- Persistent bad breath
- Yellow or brown discoloration on teeth
- Excessive drooling or abnormal chewing
- Bleeding or inflamed gums
- Loose or broken teeth
Frequency and Preventive Care
Most vets recommend professional dental cleanings once per year, though dogs with pre-existing dental issues or certain breeds may need cleanings more often. Between vet visits, home care is essential:
- Daily brushing with pet-safe toothpaste
- Dental chews and approved toys
- Oral health diets or water additives
Never use human toothpaste as it can contain toxic ingredients like xylitol or fluoride.
Pet Insurance and Dental Costs
Routine dental cleanings are usually not covered by pet insurance as they are deemed preventive. However, some insurance plans with wellness add-ons may reimburse a portion of the cost. Illness-related dental treatments, such as infection or trauma management, may also be eligible depending on your policy.
Tips to Reduce Dental Care Costs
- Compare prices among local veterinary clinics
- Ask about package deals or annual wellness plans
- Use veterinary school or nonprofit clinics
- Stay consistent with at-home dental care
- Explore insurance plans with dental coverage add-ons
Regular dental checkups and cleanings can prevent major health issues and save money in the long term. Caring for your dog’s teeth is not just about a cleaner smile — it’s a key part of their health and longevity.
