How Much Does Dog Teeth Cleaning Cost?

Just like humans, dogs need to have their teeth cleaned regularly. And just like with human teeth cleaning, dog teeth cleaning can get expensive. Depending on your dog’s size and the severity of the dental problem, you could be looking at a bill of several hundred dollars or more.

Suppose you hold off on canine teeth cleaning due to its cost and allow the issue to go uncontrolled. In that case, that delay could have damaging medical effects, including missing teeth and periodontal conditions. Regardless of whether you clean your dog’s teeth frequently, they still require an experienced vet to perform the treatment and adequately clean the mouth area. Let’s take a look at some of the factors that affect dog teeth cleaning cost.

General dog teeth cleaning cost

Typically, dog teeth cleaning costs run between $180 and $1200, which doesn’t include special therapies for periodontal conditions or extractions. Non-anesthetic cleaning costs are lower, around $180 – $270. Cleanings that do require the dog to have anesthesia are more expensive, with costs between $600 – $1200.  These more invasive procedures can add several hundred dollars to the total veterinarian cost. Here is a brief breakdown of the procedures you will pay for when your dog has their teeth cleaned by a veterinarian.

Anesthesia

The first factor to consider is anesthesia. For your vet to thoroughly clean your dog’s teeth, they must put them under general anesthesia. Because dogs are not cooperative when it comes to having their mouths poked and prodded, the procedure is more accessible and safer if the dog is under anesthesia. The cost of anesthesia will vary depending on the weight of your dog; for example, a small dog will typically cost less for anesthesia than a large dog.

You’re not alone if you are worried about the possible risks and adverse effects of dog dental cleaning. Many pet parents become nervous at the thought of their dog receiving anesthesia. Know that your vet’s skilled team will check your dog’s vital signs before, during, and after sedation. Many dogs recover from dental anesthesia 15 to 20 minutes after the procedure. Then, they will rest for a few hours in a crate while vet techs continue to monitor their behavior and health.

Dental X-Rays

Another factor to consider is dental x-rays. Sometimes, your vet may recommend that your dog have x-rays taken before the teeth cleaning. The inside of your dog’s teeth and those areas below the gum line can be seen with an x-ray machine using small amounts of radiation.

Dogs are often in pain when their dental problems go untreated, even if they don’t show it. Your veterinarian will use X-rays to find out what is wrong with your dog’s mouth so they can treat the issue and relieve the discomfort. If you clean a dog’s teeth without X-rays, you might miss out on chances to improve the dog’s health and life and prevent severe dental and heart disease.

The cost of dental x-rays varies depending on the dental problem and what state you and your dog live in. In addition to the specific clinic, your location in relation with other regions can affect how much it costs for canine dental care. Like most veterinary procedures, dental X-ray prices are higher near major metropolitan areas than they are in rural locations.

Most dental cleanings with anesthesia cost between $600 and $1200. But that doesn’t include extra procedures that may be needed, like oral x-rays ($150–200), tooth extractions ($10–35 per tooth on average), and root canals ($1,000 per root).

Teeth Cleaning

Of course, the most significant factor in dog teeth cleaning costs is the actual cost of the teeth cleaning itself. The cleaning is where the majority of the work occurs. The cost of dog teeth cleaning will depend on how many quadrants (sections) of your dog’s mouth need to be cleaned. A complete mouth cleaning will cost more than a half mouth cleaning. In addition, the severity of the dental problem will also affect the cost. If your dog has a lot of tartar buildup on their teeth, it will take longer to clean and cost more than if there was only a small amount of tartar.

How can you save money on dog teeth cleaning cost?

Brush those pearly whites!

Brushing your dog’s teeth daily with either a toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste goes a long way to preventing future dental problems. If your dog hates getting their teeth brushed, you can always try a brush alternative, such as brushless toothpaste and chewables.

Chew toys

Dogs that are given the opportunity to chew on rawhides, synthetic “bones” and other safe toys have healthier teeth than those without such items. So don’t hesitate to splurge on a new toy for your puppy, because this kind will keep their teeth clean, too.

Get a pet insurance plan

You should know that you can easily use a pet insurance policy to cover most of your dog’s routine dental care costs. A dog health insurance plan is worthwhile for dog parents, especially since many dog owners cannot afford unforeseen vet procedures.

With a pet insurance plan, your dog’s teeth cleaning cost will be reimbursed to you up to 90% of the total amount. That saves you money and gives you peace of mind, and you will know your dog is getting the best care possible.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that dog teeth cleaning can get very expensive in some cases. However, it’s important to remember that just like human teeth, dog teeth need to be kept clean to maintain good oral health. Think again if you’re thinking about skimping on your dog’s dental care. Get your free dog health insurance quote from Pet Insurance Review. Your pup will thank you in the long run!

References:

1. Cain, E. (2022). Periodontal Disease in Dogs: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.petinsurancereview.com/blog/periodontal-disease-in-dogs
2. Harvey, K. (2022). How Much Does a Dog Teeth Cleaning Cost? Retrieved from https://healthysmiles.pet/blog/dog-teeth-cleaning-cost
3. Cain, E. (2022). Pets and Anesthesia: What to Know. Retrieved from https://www.petinsurancereview.com/blog/what-pet-owners-need-know-about-pets-and-anesthesia 
4. Bellows, J. (2022). The Importance of Dental X-rays in Dogs. Retrieved from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/the-importance-of-dental-x-rays-in-dogs
5. Burgos, S. (2020). How Much Will Having My Dog’s Teeth Cleaned Cost? Retrieved from https://www.dailypaws.com/living-with-pets/pet-costs/dog-teeth-cleaning-cost

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.