Should I Have My 15-Year-Old Dog’s Teeth Cleaned? A Critical Examination
The decision to proceed with a dental cleaning for a senior dog, especially one aged 15, is complex; should I have my 15 year old dog’s teeth cleaned? Ultimately, it requires careful consideration of the dog’s overall health, the severity of dental disease, and a thorough discussion with your veterinarian to weigh the potential benefits and risks.
Understanding Dental Disease in Senior Dogs
Dental disease, also known as periodontal disease, is incredibly common in older dogs. By the age of 15, most dogs have some degree of dental disease. This isn’t just about bad breath; it’s a progressive condition that can lead to:
- Tooth loss
- Pain and discomfort
- Infection that can spread to other organs (heart, kidneys, liver)
- Difficulty eating, leading to weight loss
Ignoring dental disease in a senior dog can significantly impact their quality of life and even shorten their lifespan.
Potential Benefits of Dental Cleaning
A professional dental cleaning, performed under anesthesia, offers several potential benefits for a 15-year-old dog:
- Removal of plaque and tartar: This addresses the source of inflammation and infection.
- Assessment of tooth health: The veterinarian can identify and address issues like loose teeth, abscesses, and fractures.
- Pain relief: Cleaning and extraction of diseased teeth can alleviate significant pain and discomfort.
- Improved appetite: Addressing dental pain can make eating more comfortable.
- Reduced risk of systemic disease: Removing the source of infection can protect vital organs.
Risks Associated with Dental Cleaning in Senior Dogs
The primary risk associated with dental cleaning in a senior dog is anesthesia. Older dogs often have underlying health conditions that increase the risks associated with anesthesia. These risks include:
- Cardiovascular complications: Heart disease is more common in older dogs, and anesthesia can put additional stress on the heart.
- Kidney and liver problems: Impaired kidney or liver function can affect the dog’s ability to metabolize anesthetic drugs.
- Respiratory problems: Anesthesia can suppress breathing, especially in dogs with existing respiratory issues.
- Prolonged recovery: Senior dogs may take longer to recover from anesthesia than younger dogs.
Steps Before Scheduling a Dental Cleaning
Before deciding “Should I have my 15 year old dog’s teeth cleaned?“, careful planning and assessment are crucial:
- Thorough Veterinary Examination: This is the first and most important step. The vet will assess your dog’s overall health and identify any underlying conditions.
- Pre-Anesthetic Blood Work: Blood tests can help identify kidney, liver, and other health problems that could increase the risks of anesthesia.
- Cardiac Evaluation (if necessary): If your dog has a heart murmur or other signs of heart disease, the vet may recommend an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart).
- Stabilize Existing Conditions: If any health issues are identified, they should be addressed and stabilized as much as possible before scheduling the dental cleaning.
- Anesthesia Protocol: Discuss the anesthesia protocol with your veterinarian. They should use the safest possible anesthetic drugs and monitoring equipment for senior dogs.
Alternatives to Full Anesthesia
In some cases, non-anesthetic dental cleaning may be considered. This involves scaling the teeth without putting the dog under anesthesia. However, it’s important to understand that this method has significant limitations:
- It only removes plaque and tartar above the gum line. It doesn’t address subgingival disease, which is the primary source of infection.
- It can be stressful for the dog. Without anesthesia, the dog may be uncomfortable and resist the procedure.
- It doesn’t allow for a thorough examination of the teeth and gums. The veterinarian cannot properly assess the health of the teeth or perform extractions if needed.
- It can lead to further damage. Forcing a dog to remain still can cause damage.
| Feature | Anesthetic Dental Cleaning | Non-Anesthetic Dental Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| ————————- | —————————– | ———————————- |
| Plaque/Tartar Removal | Above & Below Gumline | Above Gumline Only |
| Anesthesia Required | Yes | No |
| Thorough Examination | Yes | Limited |
| Addressing Underlying Issues | Yes (extractions, etc.) | No |
| Stressful for Dog | Minimal (under anesthesia) | Potentially High |
| Risk of Damage | Low (if done properly) | Higher |
| Effectiveness | High | Low |
For many dogs, and especially those with significant dental disease, non-anesthetic cleaning is not a suitable alternative to professional dental cleaning under anesthesia. If you’re wondering “Should I have my 15 year old dog’s teeth cleaned?“, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Dental Disease: Waiting until the dog is in obvious pain or has severe dental disease before seeking treatment.
- Delaying Preventative Care: Neglecting regular dental checkups and at-home dental care.
- Skipping Pre-Anesthetic Testing: Taking unnecessary risks by not properly evaluating the dog’s health before anesthesia.
- Choosing an Inexperienced Veterinarian: Selecting a vet who doesn’t have extensive experience with senior dog anesthesia and dental procedures.
- Relying on Non-Anesthetic Cleaning Alone: Expecting non-anesthetic cleaning to address underlying dental disease.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Cleaning for Senior Dogs
What are the signs of dental disease in dogs?
Common signs of dental disease include bad breath, excessive drooling, difficulty eating, bleeding gums, loose teeth, and facial swelling. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.
How often should I have my dog’s teeth cleaned?
The frequency of dental cleanings depends on the individual dog’s needs. Some dogs require annual cleanings, while others may only need them every two or three years. Your veterinarian can recommend a cleaning schedule based on your dog’s dental health.
Is anesthesia safe for senior dogs?
Anesthesia always carries some risk, but with proper pre-anesthetic testing and monitoring, it can be relatively safe for senior dogs. Your veterinarian will use the safest possible anesthetic drugs and monitoring equipment. The question, “Should I have my 15 year old dog’s teeth cleaned?“, must be approached with a comprehensive review of risks and benefits.
What is the cost of a dental cleaning for a dog?
The cost of a dental cleaning can vary depending on the location, the veterinarian, and the severity of the dental disease. It typically ranges from several hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the level of care required (bloodwork, extractions, anesthesia time, etc.).
Can I brush my dog’s teeth at home?
Yes, brushing your dog’s teeth at home is an excellent way to prevent dental disease. Use a pet-specific toothbrush and toothpaste and brush daily or at least several times a week. Introduce brushing gradually, making it a positive experience for your dog.
Are there any dental chews or treats that can help keep my dog’s teeth clean?
Yes, there are many dental chews and treats that can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Look for products that are approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). However, these products are not a substitute for professional dental cleanings.
What happens during a professional dental cleaning?
During a professional dental cleaning, your dog will be placed under anesthesia. The veterinarian will then remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, both above and below the gum line. They will also examine the teeth for any signs of damage or disease and may take X-rays to assess the health of the tooth roots. If necessary, they will extract any diseased teeth.
What is involved in pre-anesthetic blood work?
Pre-anesthetic blood work typically includes a complete blood count (CBC) to assess red and white blood cell levels, and a chemistry panel to evaluate kidney, liver, and electrolyte function. These tests help identify any underlying health problems that could increase the risks of anesthesia.
What are some signs that my dog might be in pain from dental disease?
Signs of dental pain include decreased appetite, difficulty chewing, dropping food, pawing at the face, hiding, and changes in behavior. If you suspect your dog is in pain, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.
What are some long-term consequences of not treating dental disease?
Untreated dental disease can lead to tooth loss, chronic pain, infection that spreads to other organs, and a decreased quality of life.
What if my dog has a heart murmur? Can they still have their teeth cleaned?
If your dog has a heart murmur, it’s essential to have a cardiac evaluation before scheduling a dental cleaning. The cardiologist can assess the severity of the heart disease and recommend the safest anesthesia protocol. In many cases, dogs with heart murmurs can still safely undergo dental cleanings.
What kind of post-operative care will my dog need after a dental cleaning?
After a dental cleaning, your dog may need pain medication and antibiotics. You may also need to feed them soft food for a few days. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions based on your dog’s individual needs. It’s important to follow their instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery.