Teeth Cleaning for Dogs

Like humans, dogs can suffer from periodontal disease, cavities, and infected teeth that cause inflammation throughout the body.

As a rule of thumb, your furry friend should get their teeth cleaned by a licensed veterinarian at least once a year. That’s where Marietta Vet Clinic steps in.

Learn how Dr. Julian Peckich in Marietta, GA, can promote your pet’s health with regular teeth cleaning for dogs.

The Canine Teeth Cleaning Process From Start to Finish

Physical Exam

We examine your pup from head to tail, assessing each body system. This helps us know what their teeth look like and if any medical concerns should be addressed before a dental cleaning.

Bloodwork Analysis

We draw your pet’s blood and run a panel that evaluates their organ function to ensure the process of anesthesia administration will go smoothly. Any abnormal results may impact how we perform anesthesia or possibly delay teeth cleaning or dental care until underlying problems are addressed.

General Anesthesia

A proper dental cleaning is performed while your dog is under general anesthesia, which lets us properly diagnose, X-ray, and perform tooth extractions.

Teeth Cleaning

Each tooth is cleaned deep into the gum line, a process known as scaling. The tartar below the gum line causes the most significant gum disease, so removing it is crucial.

Polishing

After scaling, the teeth are polished to eliminate microscopic scratches and slow plaque build-up. A fluoride treatment and sealant may also be recommended at this time.

Why Do Dogs Need to Be Put Under Anesthesia?

You may love the idea of getting your dog’s teeth cleaned by a professional but feel some hesitation about having them put under anesthesia. However, this is an important facet of the treatment.

Here are just some of the reasons our team in Marietta, GA, doesn't recommend anesthesia-free dental care for dogs:

  • If your pet is awake, we won’t be able to perform a thorough examination of the mouth, including the ligaments and bone below the gum line. This can mean dental disease goes undetected, and therefore, untreated. 
  • If a dog were to move during the procedure, there is potential for the sharp scaling tools to injure its mouth.
  • An awake, alert pet is more prone to stress and pain than one who is sedated.

What Marietta Is Saying About Our Practice

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Marietta, GA

2023

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Will make this my veterinary clinic for now on. I was told this was the place to go, and my neighbors were right. Great fees and care. My two dogs, Maverick and Marlboro have a new veterinary home.

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Julie Kimmerling

2023

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Dr. Peckich and team has helped me so much with Mimi, my little Pomeranian with heart disease and Honeybear with kidney disease.  They are living a happy, healthy life and I credit it to Marietta Vet Clinic for the excellent care that they both have received. 

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The Recovery Period What You Should Know

Since dental care involves your dog being put under anesthesia, they will need to recover at our office for a few hours. During this time, we’ll monitor your pet and ensure no complications have arisen. After they can walk on their own, your dog will be ready to return home!

After your dog's cleaning, owners shouldn’t notice any major side effects outside of their pet being sleepy for a few hours. If your dog’s teeth have been extracted, we may provide you with pain medication to administer and basic instructions to provide soft food while their mouth heals.

Drowsy Chihuahua

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Cleaning for Dogs

Can I use human toothpaste for cleaning my dog’s teeth?

No — toothpastes for humans contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs and cats and can cause internal problems if swallowed. Moreover, human products also commonly contain higher salt levels, which can be an issue for some dogs. Brushing with pet toothpastes is the way to go: they are non-foaming, safe to be swallowed, and come in various flavors appealing for your pooch.

Will teeth cleaning help get rid of my dog’s bad breath?

Just as regular visits to the dentist and brushing your teeth help you keep your own breath fresh, a thorough teeth cleaning and a proper home care plan for your dog will stave off bad breath for them, too. It’s a common assumption that dogs normally have bad breath, but this is not true. A foul odor is a sign of progressive dental disease.

When would a dog need a tooth extracted?

A tooth extraction may be necessary if a cat's or dog's tooth is severely damaged; this can occur if your pet severely breaks a tooth or if poor oral hygiene lead to decay. When their tooth is damaged beyond repair, extracting it prevents the spread of infection and pain. It is important to note that broken or fractured teeth can often be repaired so they maintain normal function. 

"This is one class act veterinary office." More Stellar Reviews From Dog Owners in Marietta

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Marietta, GA

2023

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This is one class act veterinary office. Dr. Peckich and crew spend time with you and answer all your questions and give you options based on you and your dog. I have been coming for years and will continue to do so.

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OJ Risoldi

Marietta, GA

2023

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Dr. Julian Peckich DVM and staff are some of the most caring animal lovers I have run across. Every time I am in there, he has a rescue group there because of his kindness. And above all he has taken excellent care of my animals...Thanks Marietta Vet Clinic!

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Marietta Vet Clinic Dr. Julian Peckich

At Marietta Vet Clinic, we offer comprehensive, high-quality care at our state-of-the-art facility. We strive to create the most welcoming, pleasant experience for you and your furry friend. Dr. Peckich is affiliated with the American Veterinary Medical Association and has been providing specialized care for nearly ten years. 

To get started, request your pet’s appointment online or call our Marietta office at (404) 919-5150.

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