Pet Dental Care: Cleanings & Prevention Tips

Clarkson Lakeshore Animal Hospital | Mississauga (Clarkson/Lakeshore)

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs and cats—and it often goes unnoticed until it becomes painful. Many pets continue eating even with sore mouths, so early dental care is key. If you’re noticing bad breath, tartar, or red gums, it’s a good time to book a dental exam.

At Clarkson Lakeshore Animal Hospital, we provide complete dental care for dogs and cats, including professional cleanings and personalized prevention plans to help keep your pet comfortable and healthy.

Why dental care matters

Plaque forms quickly on teeth. If it isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar, irritates the gums, and can lead to gingivitis and periodontal disease. Over time, dental disease can cause:
  •  Chronic mouth discomfort
  •  Loose teeth
  •  Tooth and gum infections
  •  Difficulty chewing or dropping food

Signs your pet may need a dental check

Look for these common warning signs:
  •  Bad breath
  •  Yellow/brown tartar buildup
  •  Red, bleeding, or receding gums
  •  Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or facial rubbing
  •  Chewing on one side, eating slower, dropping kibble
  •  Swelling under the eye or along the jaw (possible dental infection)

At-home dental care (simple and effective)

1) Brush when you can

Brushing is the best at-home tool. Daily is ideal, but even 3–4 times per week helps. Use pet-safe toothpaste only (never human toothpaste).

Quick tip: Focus on the outer surfaces of the teeth along the gumline—this is where plaque builds up the most.

2) Choose the right dental chews or dental diets

Veterinary-recommended dental chews and dental diets can reduce plaque and tartar—especially when combined with brushing.

3) Helpful add-ons

Water additives, dental wipes, and oral gels can support oral health if brushing is difficult.

Avoid very hard chews (bones, antlers, very hard nylon), which can crack teeth.

What a professional dental cleaning includes (and why anesthesia is used)

A proper dental cleaning is more than removing visible tartar. The most important disease often sits below the gumline, where it can’t be safely assessed or treated in an awake pet.

A professional dental procedure typically includes:
  •  A full oral exam under anesthesia
  •  Scaling above and below the gumline
  •  Polishing to smooth enamel
  •  Dental X-rays when recommended to check roots and bone health
  •  A personalized plan for prevention at home

How often should pets get dental cleanings?

It depends on breed, age, and genetics. Small-breed dogs and many cats need dental care more frequently. We’ll recommend the right interval based on what we see during your pet’s exam.

Book a dental exam

If your pet has bad breath, tartar, or changes in chewing, we can help. We’ll assess your pet’s mouth and recommend the right plan—home care tips, a professional dental cleaning, and prevention strategies.

Clarkson Lakeshore Animal Hospital
Call: 905-203-0202