At Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic, we understand how vital dental health is for your pet’s overall well-being. While at-home brushing is incredibly helpful, professional cleaning through scaling and polishing provides a deeper level of protection that brushing alone simply can’t achieve. This essential service not only freshens your pet’s breath but also prevents serious dental disease and supports long-term whole-body health.
Let’s take a look at why scaling and polishing are such valuable parts of your pet’s dental care routine.
What Are Scaling and Polishing?
Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar that have built up on your pet’s teeth. These hardened deposits harbor harmful bacteria, which can lead to gum disease, infection, and discomfort. Using specialized veterinary tools, we clean not only the visible surfaces of the teeth but also the areas beneath the gumline—where dangerous bacteria often hide.
Polishing is performed after scaling. Once tartar is removed, polishing smooths the surface of the teeth, making it harder for plaque to stick in the future. This step helps prevent new buildup and leaves the teeth cleaner and healthier for longer.
Why Are These Procedures So Important?
Prevents Periodontal Disease
Periodontal (gum) disease is extremely common in pets, often developing slowly without obvious symptoms at first. It begins with inflammation and can progress to painful infections, gum recession, and even tooth loss.
Scaling removes the bacteria-laden tartar responsible for gum disease, and polishing helps keep new bacteria from attaching quickly. Regular professional cleanings significantly reduce the risk of periodontal disease and the discomfort that comes with it.
Improves Bad Breath
Bad breath is one of the first signs of dental trouble. The same bacteria that cause gum inflammation also produce unpleasant odors. Scaling removes these bacteria, and polishing reduces their ability to return—giving your pet fresher, healthier breath.
Protects Against Tooth Loss
Over time, tartar buildup can weaken the structures that support your pet’s teeth. When left untreated, this can lead to loose or missing teeth, which can make eating painful and affect your pet’s nutrition. Routine scaling and polishing help protect tooth health so your pet can continue enjoying their meals comfortably.
Supports Overall Health
Your pet’s mouth plays a major role in their whole-body health. When dental disease is present, bacteria can enter the bloodstream and affect vital organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys. Keeping your pet’s teeth clean helps reduce this risk and promotes better long-term wellness.
Provides a More Comfortable Experience for Your Pet
Scaling and polishing are performed under anesthesia to ensure your pet is safe, relaxed, and pain-free throughout the procedure. This allows us to clean thoroughly—including below the gumline—without causing stress or discomfort. After the cleaning, many pets experience immediate improvement in comfort.
When Should Your Pet Have a Professional Dental Cleaning?
Most pets benefit from routine cleanings starting around one year of age. Some pets, especially small breeds or those prone to dental issues, may require more frequent cleanings to maintain optimal oral health.
Common signs that your pet may need a dental cleaning include:
• Persistent bad breath
• Drooling more than usual
• Difficulty chewing or dropping food
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Visible tartar buildup
If you notice any of these signs, call Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic to schedule a dental evaluation.
How to Maintain Your Pet’s Dental Health Between Cleanings
Professional cleaning is important, but home care also plays a major role in maintaining your pet’s oral health.
Here are simple ways to support healthy teeth and gums:
Brush Regularly: Use pet-safe toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush. Even a few times a week makes a difference.
Offer Dental Chews: Many specially designed chews help reduce plaque naturally.
Schedule Routine Exams: Regular checkups allow us to monitor oral health and catch issues early.
Keeping Your Pet Smiling
Dental care isn’t just about clean teeth—it’s about preventing disease, ensuring comfort, and supporting a longer, healthier life. At Cherry Knolls Veterinary Clinic, our professional scaling and polishing services are designed to help your pet look and feel better from the inside out.
To schedule a dental cleaning or learn more about your pet’s oral health, give us a call at 303-779-1170. We’re here to keep your pet’s smile bright and healthy!