When is a DOG Too old for a Dental Cleaning?

Hi Everyone! My name is Dan, and I am a veterinarian. Today I am talking about when is a dog too old for a dental cleaning. Dental cleanings are really important with regards to the dog's health.

We want ever dog to feel their best, and when they have a mouth that is infected, inflamed, or painful, a dental cleaning can greatly improve their lives.

However, when is a dog too old to have their teeth cleaned. It is important to do a complete physical exam, lab work, and develop an anesthetic plan for older pets. Older dog's have more risk factors than younger dogs making complications more common.

When it comes to dental cleaning for dogs, anesthesia is commonly used for several reasons. Anesthesia ensures the safety and comfort of the dog during the procedure, as it allows the veterinarian to perform a thorough cleaning and examination without causing stress or pain to the animal. Here's some information about dog anesthesia for dental cleaning:

Safety: Anesthesia helps keep the dog still and relaxed, preventing sudden movements that could potentially harm the animal or interfere with the dental procedure. It also allows the veterinarian to use specialized dental instruments safely and efficiently.

Pain management: Dental cleanings often involve scaling, polishing, and sometimes extractions. These procedures can be uncomfortable or painful for the dog, especially if there are dental issues like periodontal disease. Anesthesia ensures that the dog is free from pain during the process.

Cooperation: Dogs generally don't understand the purpose of dental cleanings, making it difficult for them to cooperate during the procedure. Anesthesia allows the veterinarian to work without any resistance from the dog, ensuring a thorough cleaning and examination.

Full examination: Anesthesia enables the veterinarian to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the dog's oral health. They can check for issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, oral tumors, or other abnormalities that may not be visible during a regular examination.

Anesthesia also allows for X-rays to be taken if necessary.
Stress reduction: Dental cleanings can be stressful for dogs, especially if they are fearful or anxious. Anesthesia helps to alleviate anxiety and fear, providing a more comfortable experience for the dog.
It's important to note that anesthesia carries some inherent risks, especially for older dogs or those with underlying health conditions. However, with proper pre-anesthetic evaluation, monitoring during the procedure, and appropriate post-operative care, the risks can be minimized significantly.

Always consult with a professional veterinarian to discuss the specific needs and risks associated with anesthesia for your dog's dental cleaning. They will be able to provide guidance based on the individual circumstances and health of your dog.

[sandyhearn]

Our cocker spaniel lived to age 15. At about age 11, we took him for a check up just because he was getting very grumpy in his old age. His breath was horrible and the vet suggested a teeth cleaning. He came through it very well, they removed 3 rotten teeth while he was under. He must have been suffering with tooth pain, because his personality literally changed for the better.

[nationalscholar]

My 14-year-old Golden has a heart murmur, bad arthritis, and bad tartar build-up on her molars. My vet said she has about a year left of life to live. My vet, who is great otherwise, didn't do any bloodwork on her before recommending to put her under anesthesia to clean/remove her back teeth. After a lot of research, I decided not to take a chance on losing her during the operation and to let her live out her life in peace. My other senior dog who underwent teeth removal was never the same after the dental cleaning. I hope I'm making the right decision.

[jemma]

My 10y/o Golden got the go ahead for dental cleaning. The vet put him under and then left him under to attend to an emergency. My dog was under for over 3 hours. He was never the same again, became so lethargic I checked his gums, pale af! Took him to Tufts, he was bleeding internally, yet they couldn’t find exactly where! I had to euthanize my baby. All I want is an answer, but never received one.😡

[catzmz]

Good advice. Its all down to the health of the individual dog and the quality of life they will have. I never did a dental on my elderly dog with serious heart issues because the risks outweighed the benefits.
However Im currently waiting to pick up my 5Ib 14yr old dog after having all her remaining teeth removed because her physical and bloodworks were great and her quality of life could be much improved from not having tooth issues anymore.

[ciaraj]

My adopted senior dog has possible Cushings’ Disease, Chronic Kidney Disease and 25% kidney function. If he doesn’t get all his teeth extracted, it’s going to kill him. It’s affecting him internally.

[jlkdr]

I have a 16 year old miniature poodle with dental issues. She also has a collapsing trachea and kidney disease and other issues. My vet said he could clean her teeth with no problem. My daughter who is a vet specialist on the other side of the country said not to do it. My pup had a dental three to four years ago but her teeth are bad. She’s still loves to eat the food I make for her, but I can tell she has trouble. I feel so conflicted that I’m frozen.

[kotucdm]

My dog 13years old they did full exam for teeth cleaning she has a triple heart murmur and a trachea collapse problem. They suggest no anesthesia she could pass away. My doggie needs teeth really cleaned her teeth in bad shape. What else could I have done to have her teeth cleaned?

[corrinamartinez]

What if you’re dog doesn’t have a good heart for anesthesia, but needs a tooth pulled? My dog is 14 years old almost 15 and I know there’s a tooth that needs to be pulled.

[Angelina]

I’m sure it was massive toxicities caused by the anesthesia that caused a sort of peritonitis. I’m sure the Holy Angels brought him home. I’m always praying over my dog Frankie, who I put a scapular on with a St. Benedict medal. He’s been miraculously spared several near tragedies. Many local dogs were hit by cars and others dog napped. He seemed to be suffering from PTSD and would run around in circles barking or hide under the bed and eat Kleenex. So, I prayed over him and applied holy water, he came around to be the most loving, patient, happy, joyful dog ever. He’s. very protecting and obedient too. However, I’ve had some horrific experiences with dog abuse too and I’ve prayed. Somehow “God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love Him and according to His good purposes.” Romans 8:28.
Hopefully you’re doing better now and maybe a new dog will be yours soon.

[Natinluv]

I have a recent 10 year old dog unfortunately my parents and I haven’t been able to do a cleaning on him for Finacial reason but did in his early years. His teeth has been bad than before and I’m willing to go spend on him but scared going under will affect his health. Tried home remedies but my dogs has some resists touching his mouth.

[rosiedominguez]

Hi Dr. Thanks for your video. I have an 11 yr old schnauzer. She has a heart murmur. Takes 2.5 vetmedin twice daily. My vet said her teeth needs cleaning but i have concerns due to her heart issue. She said she can give a mild propofol. But nonetheless im scared..your input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

[DynaGlyde]

What are some top recommendations of chew gum and teeth cleaning products?

Such as chews, powders, and water additives?

[misslollipop]

just found your channel! and this topic is just right at the right time. one of my dog is almost nine years old- we adopted her two and a half years ago and her teeth are in bad condition (not all of them). three have to be removed and she needs a cleaning overall. she had a leg surgery by the end of march of this year- everything went well. but i am afraid of the dental cleaning because it means anesthesia again 😮should i still wait a couple of months or is it ok to go for the dental which she really needs?

[dnjfcgb]

Ah am clearly a professor I'm as by. Not a pin clinic 🎉bloooos
😅

[dnjfcgb]

😂 the da you definitely should quit see

[shimereemoon]

Who abused your dog? You did or someone else? Do tell