Teeth - time for another professional dental cleaning already!?

dukesup1978 · 10-14-2009, 01:41 PM

I have a 5-year-old min pin, who had a Professional Dental Cleaning a little under a year ago - November 2008. It was her first and only cleaning to date. I brush my dogs teeth once a week, and give things to chew on daily i.e. Dogswell Chicken, duck, vegetable strips, etc.

Today at my yearly check-up they told me her teeth are looking good - little yellow but no need for concern. However, when I asked when they recommend she get another cleaning they said they recommend I do it tomorrow if my schedule allows.

Now, I am not opposed to getting my dogs teeth cleaned again - I just want some opinions - I would just like to be sure that it makes sense to do since it is quite expen$ive! All advice/feedback is GREATLY appreciated.

Thank you!

Tankstar · 10-14-2009, 05:59 PM

If there is no tarter build up I would not bother.

My dog is 6 never had a professional dental cleaning. his teeth have a teeny bit of yellow coleration, nothing much.

Do you have any pictre of her teeth?

It sounds like your vet just wants money IMO.

I talked to my vet and asked her if she though Blaze needed a cleaning. She said he had some of the healthiest teeth and gums she has ever seen. funny how a few months before our old vet told us he needed immeadiate care or he would lose them. Dont see how as he has no tarter build up. he eats RAW so that fixes that.

glad I found a sensible vet

dukesup1978 · 10-14-2009, 08:06 PM

They don't show a whole lot, but here are some photos:

TEST
http://lh5.ggpht.com/_bbNmgoZcMhI/St...0/IMG_0065.JPG

Teeth photo1
http://lh3.ggpht.com/_bbNmgoZcMhI/St...s512/photo.jpg

Teeth photo2
http://lh6.ggpht.com/_bbNmgoZcMhI/St...0/photo(2).jpg

Graco22 · 10-14-2009, 08:20 PM

Its hard to see alot in the pics ( I know thats a hard photo to take! LOL) but they look fine from what I can see. When there is greenish/brownish tartar buildup along the gumline on the teeth is when you need to worry about getting a dental done. And while your dog probably doesn't need it right now, its not uncommon for small breeds to need yearly (and some bi-yearly) dental cleanings. I am sure it has to do with chewing and such..tiny dogs seem less apt to really chew on bones, etc. Great job keeping up with those teeth!

Ocsi · 10-16-2009, 12:21 PM

We also just got a teeth cleaning (April) and see a little yellowing on the teeth. But this was the first time in 5 years I had his teeth cleaned.
I agree with Tankstar's hunch, sounds like the vet's trying to get more $ in their pocket...