Many pet parents ask, how often should my dog see a veterinary dentist, and the answer is more important than most realize. Just like people, dogs require consistent dental care to maintain a healthy, pain-free mouth. Dental disease is the most common health issue in dogs, affecting more than 80% of pets by age three. Without treatment, oral disease can cause pain, tooth loss, and even infections that may impact the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why veterinary dental care is essential to your dog’s overall health.
Annual Veterinary Dental Exams Are the Minimum
For most dogs, a yearly dental examination is the minimum standard of care. This is often completed during an annual wellness visit. Your veterinarian will check for tartar buildup, gum inflammation, fractured teeth, and oral masses. However, a full and accurate oral exam can be difficult in an awake dog.
While your primary veterinarian can perform routine evaluations, a board-certified veterinary dentist offers the highest level of advanced care. These specialists complete several additional years of training to diagnose and treat complex dental and oral surgical conditions.
At Carefree Dentistry & Oral Surgery for Animals, every patient benefits from advanced imaging, including full-mouth dental X-rays and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). These powerful tools help detect hidden disease below the gumline that cannot be seen in a basic oral exam. Learn more about our specialty services at:
👉 www.animaldentalaz.com
More Frequent Visits for Dogs With Dental Disease
Dogs with existing dental issues often need to see a veterinary dentist more frequently—sometimes every six months. More frequent appointments may be necessary if your dog has:
-
Periodontal disease – the most common oral condition in dogs
-
Broken or fractured teeth from chewing hard toys, antlers, or bones
-
Malocclusions (bad bites) that cause discomfort or functional issues
-
Oral tumors or growths, where early detection can be lifesaving
A board-certified veterinary dentist will develop an individualized treatment and follow-up plan based on your dog’s specific needs.
Senior Dogs Need Closer Dental Monitoring
As dogs age, they are more likely to develop advanced periodontal disease, tooth loss, and health complications related to oral infections. For senior pets, visiting a veterinary dentist every six months is often recommended to maintain comfort, prevent pain, and support overall quality of life.
What Happens During a Veterinary Dental Visit?
A comprehensive veterinary dental visit includes much more than checking teeth. Under anesthesia, your veterinary dentist can:
-
Take full-mouth X-rays and/or CBCT scans
-
Thoroughly clean and polish all teeth
-
Evaluate gum health, bone structure, and detect hidden disease
-
Perform treatments such as periodontal surgery, extractions, crowns, or root canals
The goal of veterinary dentistry is not just a cleaner smile—it’s a healthy, comfortable, and functional mouth.
Home Care Between Veterinary Dental Visits
Professional care is essential, but home dental care plays a major role in keeping your dog’s mouth healthy. Daily brushing, VOHC-approved dental chews, and routine monitoring can significantly delay progression of disease and extend time between professional cleanings. To learn more about recommended home dental care, visit:
👉 American Veterinary Dental College: https://avdc.org/animal-owners/dental-care-for-your-pet/
Final Thoughts: How Often Should My Dog See a Veterinary Dentist?
So, how often should your dog see a veterinary dentist?
-
At least once per year for routine dogs with no existing dental disease
-
Every six months for dogs with dental disease, senior dogs, or at-risk breeds
-
Immediately if you notice bad breath, bleeding gums, broken teeth, drooling, difficulty eating, or facial swelling
At Carefree Dentistry & Oral Surgery for Animals, our board-certified veterinary dentists use advanced technology, compassionate care, and customized treatment plans to keep your dog’s mouth healthy and pain-free.