Pet dental cleaning is one of the most useful things you can do for your dog or cat's long term health, yet dental problems are easy to miss because pets hide pain well. If you have noticed bad breath, yellow or brown build up on the teeth, or your pet chewing on one side, it may be time for a check. This guide explains the common signs, what happens during a professional pet dental cleaning in Dubai, and how to look after your pet's teeth at home between visits.
What are the signs my pet needs a dental cleaning?
Common signs are bad breath, yellow or brown tartar on the teeth, red or bleeding gums, drooling, pawing at the mouth, dropping food or chewing on one side, and loose or broken teeth. Some pets also eat less or become quieter. If you see any of these, book a dental check with your vet.
Why is bad breath in dogs and cats a problem?
Bad breath is often the first sign of plaque and tartar building up, which can lead to gum disease. Gum disease is painful and, if left alone, can cause teeth to loosen or fall out. It is not something to accept as normal pet smell, so mention it at your next vet visit.
What happens during a professional pet dental cleaning?
The vet first examines your pet's mouth and checks their general health. The cleaning itself is done under general anaesthetic, so your pet stays still and pain free. The teeth are scaled above and below the gum line, then polished. Damaged teeth may need further treatment or removal, which the vet discusses with you.
Find out more about pet dental cleaning and the other dental services at Alpha Vet.
Is anaesthesia safe for pet dental cleaning?
For most healthy pets, modern anaesthesia is safe when the pet is checked first and monitored throughout. A proper clean below the gum line is not possible on an awake pet. Your vet will look at your pet's age and health, explain any risks, and answer your questions before you decide.
How often should a dog or cat have their teeth cleaned?
It depends on the pet. Many dogs and cats benefit from a dental check at their yearly health exam, with a cleaning when the vet sees tartar or gum problems. Small dog breeds and some cats tend to need cleanings more often. Your vet will suggest a schedule after looking at your pet's mouth.
A good habit is to ask for a quick teeth check whenever your pet comes in for vaccinations. See our dog vaccination schedule and cat vaccination guide for when those visits are due.
Do cats need dental care too?
Yes. Cats get plaque, tartar and gum disease just like dogs, and they are even better at hiding mouth pain. Watch for drooling, dropping food, chewing on one side or a cat that suddenly prefers soft food. Cats can also develop painful lesions on their teeth that only a vet can find.
How can I care for my pet's teeth at home?
Brush your pet's teeth a few times a week, ideally daily, with a soft pet toothbrush and a toothpaste made for pets. Never use human toothpaste, as some ingredients can be harmful to pets. Dental chews and dental diets can help, but they do not replace brushing or professional cleaning.
Step by step for brushing
- Start slowly, letting your pet lick a little pet toothpaste from your finger.
- Lift the lip and gently rub the outer surface of the teeth with your finger.
- After a few days, switch to a soft pet toothbrush.
- Focus on the back teeth, where tartar builds up most.
- Keep sessions short and end with praise or a small treat.
Never use human toothpaste on your dog or cat. Some ingredients can be harmful to pets, so always choose a toothpaste made for animals.
How much does pet dental cleaning cost in Dubai?
The cost depends on your pet's size, how much tartar there is, and whether any teeth need treatment or removal. A dental check first lets the vet give you a clear quote.
Where can I get pet dental cleaning in Dubai?
Alpha Vet offers dental checks and professional dental cleaning for dogs and cats at our clinic on 2nd December Street, Jumeirah 1, Dubai. Book a dental check and our team will examine your pet's mouth, explain what they find, and talk you through the next steps.
Book a dental check online or call the clinic on +971 56 689 1655.
Frequently asked questions
Can I clean my dog's teeth without anaesthesia?
Home brushing is done without anaesthesia and is very helpful. A full professional cleaning below the gum line needs general anaesthesia so it can be done properly and without pain or stress for your pet.
What should my pet eat after a dental cleaning?
Your vet will give you aftercare instructions. Soft food is often recommended for a few days, especially if any teeth were removed.
At what age should my pet have their first dental check?
Your vet can check your puppy or kitten's teeth at their first vaccination visits, including baby teeth that have not fallen out. After that, a yearly dental check is a good habit.
Is bad breath in cats normal?
No. A healthy cat's breath should not smell strongly. Bad breath in a cat can be a sign of dental disease or another health problem, so book a check with your vet.