07/09/2024
Teeth Cleaning at the Groomers: Too Good to Be True?
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets, with many owners seeking new ways to keep their pets’ teeth healthy to avoid potentially expensive vet bills. Lately, I’ve heard about groomers offering teeth cleaning services, but when I ask for details, owners are unsure of what’s involved. Below, I clarify some of the services offered, before advising how best to look after your pet’s teeth to keep them happy, healthy and pain-free.
1. Tooth Brushing: Like humans, daily tooth brushing is the gold standard for pets. Groomers may offer “teeth cleaning” that simply involves brushing your pet’s teeth during a session. However, brushing just once every 6-8 weeks won't prevent dental disease. It must be done daily or at least every other day to be effective.
2. Ultrasonic Toothbrushes: Some groomers offer “ultrasonic teeth cleaning,” using an ultrasonic toothbrush – a high-tech, electric toothbrush for pets. While this sounds fancy, it must be done frequently to maintain oral health, just like regular brushing.
3. Ultrasonic Scalers: Here’s where things get concerning. Some groomers offer “ultrasonic teeth cleaning” using an ultrasonic scaler. These devices should only be used by veterinary professionals with your pet under anaesthesia in a veterinary clinic. This is because:
🦷 A full oral exam can’t be performed without sedation/anaesthesia, so important diagnoses may be missed or delayed.
🦷 Effective cleaning, especially below the gum line, can be painful without anaesthesia. Damage can be done if your pet was to move, potentially leading to tooth loss.
🦷 It creates a false sense of security, as just removing visible tartar doesn’t mean your pet’s teeth are healthy.
So, What Should You Do?
For effective dental care, trust your vet. Regular brushing at home is the best preventative measure. Professional cleanings should always be performed by a vet or RVN under anaesthesia.
Feel free to reach out to me for dental health advice! As an RVN, I can:
⭐ Help with preventative home dental care
⭐ Advise when professional dental care is needed
⭐ Help recognise early signs of dental disease