Comprehensive Cat Dental Cleaning Services at Simon Veterinary Surgical 🐾
Did you know? By the time cats turn four years old, a shocking number — nearly 70% — already show signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
At Simon Veterinary Surgical, we understand how oral hygiene plays a critical role in your cat’s overall health — not just for their teeth and gums, but for their heart, kidneys, and immune system too.
What Sets Us Apart?
Our clinic combines cutting-edge technology with a cat-friendly approach to make every dental appointment stress-free for both you and your pet. When you choose Simon Veterinary Surgical, your cat will receive:
✅ Comprehensive Oral Exams — Detecting hidden problems like tooth resorption or early-stage inflammation.
✅ Professional Teeth Cleaning Under General Anesthesia — Ensuring a thorough cleaning while keeping your cat calm and pain-free.
✅ Personalized Home Care Advice — Teaching you how to maintain your cat’s oral hygiene between professional cleanings.
With board-certified veterinary dentists on staff and state-of-the-art dental tools, we provide advanced care designed to prevent painful tooth decay and costly surgeries down the line.
📅 Ready to Schedule?
Click here to book your cat’s dental cleaning today or call/text us at 833-329-0777 to learn more about our cat dental care services.
Los Angeles Cat Dental Cleaning Services by Simon Veterinary Surgical
🔑 Key Takeaways
✅ By age 3 to 4, most cats already have gum disease — early prevention matters.
✅ Dental disease in cats isn’t just about bad breath — it can lead to infections, tooth loss, and even affect the heart, liver, and kidneys.
✅ Professional dental cleanings under anesthesia are the gold standard — they allow for a full exam, proper cleaning, and essential dental X-rays.
✅ Dental X-rays (radiographs) are critical — over half of each tooth sits hidden beneath the gumline, where serious problems often start.
✅ At-home care is crucial between cleanings — regular brushing (yes, brushing!), dental treats, and diet adjustments can make a real difference.
✅ Ignoring dental health can get expensive — untreated dental disease can lead to extractions, infections, and advanced medical care down the road.
✅ Cats are masters at hiding pain — even if your cat eats normally, they could still have serious dental problems brewing under the surface.
Importance of Cat Dental Cleaning: Why It’s About More Than Just Teeth
Cat dental care isn’t optional — it’s essential. By the time cats hit age three, more than half already have some level of gum disease. And once dental disease starts, it doesn’t stay put — it can trigger problems that go far beyond your cat’s mouth.
What Happens Without Regular Dental Care?
Tartar and plaque build up fast — within 6 hours of cleaning, plaque starts forming again.
Gum disease (periodontal disease) creeps in silently, affecting up to 85% of cats by age six.
Painful eating leads to food avoidance — making cats lose weight, energy, and enjoyment of life.
Benefits of Regular Dental Care for Cats
A proper dental routine — both at home and at the vet — does more than fight bad breath:
✔️ Prevents painful dental diseases like gingivitis and tooth resorption.
✔️ Spots hidden issues under the gums (where over 60% of a cat’s tooth actually sits).
✔️ Protects whole-body health by reducing the risk of bacteria entering the bloodstream.
✔️ Keeps eating enjoyable — pain-free teeth mean better appetite and fewer picky eating phases.
✔️ Saves you money in the long run by avoiding expensive extractions or emergency treatments.
Common Dental Problems in Cats (And Why You Might Not Notice Them)
Cats hide pain well. That’s why even if your cat seems to eat normally, they could still be dealing with:
Dental ProblemWhat It MeansHow Common?Periodontal DiseaseGum infection that destroys support around the teeth.Seen in most cats over age 3Tooth ResorptionThe tooth’s structure breaks down from the inside out.Affects 50% of adult catsGingivitisInflamed gums caused by plaque.Very common, often the first warning sign
Why Dental Health Affects Your Cat’s Whole Body
Oral bacteria don’t stay in the mouth. Infected gums can leak bacteria into the bloodstream, where they can settle in organs like the:
Heart (leading to endocarditis)
Kidneys (worsening chronic kidney disease)
Liver (triggering inflammatory issues)
Bottom line: Healthy teeth = a healthier cat overall.
Get the best dental care Los Angeles has to offer!
Understanding Feline Dentistry: What Really Happens at a Cat Dental Visit
Feline dentistry is way more than just a quick teeth cleaning. It’s a full diagnostic process that helps uncover hidden dental problems, many of which can’t be seen with the naked eye. Cats instinctively hide pain, so dental disease often goes unnoticed until it’s severe — making regular professional cleanings essential.
What Actually Happens During a Cat Dental Cleaning?
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what happens during a proper feline dental visit at a clinic like Simon Veterinary Surgical:
1️⃣ Pre-Cleaning Exam & Bloodwork
Before anything happens, the vet performs a physical examination and blood tests to make sure your cat can safely undergo general anesthesia. This step is non-negotiable — awake cleanings are ineffective and potentially harmful.
2️⃣ Full-Mouth Radiographs (X-Rays)
With your cat asleep, the vet takes dental radiographs — imaging that looks under the gumline. This is crucial because more than half of each tooth lies hidden below the surface, where serious issues (like resorption or bone loss) often begin.
3️⃣ Scaling & Cleaning
Using ultrasonic scalers, the vet removes plaque and calculus (tartar) from both the visible tooth surface and the deep pockets under the gumline — places even the best toothbrush can’t reach.
4️⃣ Polishing
Once the teeth are clean, they’re polished to smooth out the enamel. This helps slow down plaque buildup going forward.
5️⃣ Treatment of Problem Areas
If the X-rays show signs of decay, tooth resorption, fractures, or infection, the vet addresses them — potentially including extractions or other treatments.
Why Advanced Equipment Matters
Feline dental care isn’t the same as human dentistry. Specialized equipment designed specifically for small animals is critical for safe, effective treatment. At Simon Veterinary Surgical, we use:
Ultrasonic scalers to safely break up hardened plaque and tartar without damaging the enamel.
Dental radiography systems to capture clear images of what’s happening below the gumline, where most serious problems hide.
Polishing tools to smooth the tooth surface after cleaning, which helps slow down plaque buildup.
Real-time anesthesia monitoring to track your cat’s vital signs every step of the way, ensuring they stay safe and comfortable.
Anesthesia: Why It’s Essential — Not Optional
Cats do not tolerate dental work awake. Anesthesia isn’t just for convenience — it’s the only way to:
✅ Get accurate X-rays (cats won’t hold still for those)
✅ Clean below the gumline safely
✅ Thoroughly inspect all teeth and gums
✅ Perform necessary treatments like extractions pain-free
Before anesthesia, bloodwork helps detect any underlying issues that could make sedation risky — part of the standard of care in high-quality veterinary dentistry.
Bottom line: A real feline dental cleaning is a lot more than scraping teeth. It’s a mix of preventive care, advanced imaging, and targeted treatment — all of which protects your cat’s oral and whole-body health.
How to Tell if Your Cat Needs a Dental Cleaning
Cats are pros at hiding pain, especially when it comes to their teeth. That’s why dental disease often flies under the radar until it’s advanced. But if you know what to watch for, you can catch problems early — before they turn into infections, extractions, or serious health issues.
Behavioral Red Flags: What Your Cat’s Actions Might Be Telling You
Even small changes in eating habits or personality can be early clues of dental trouble. Pay attention if your cat:
Loses interest in dry food (crunching hurts when teeth are sore).
Starts chewing on one side only.
Drops food while eating — a classic sign something’s uncomfortable.
Suddenly hates head rubs or face pets — they could be guarding a sore mouth.
Seems grumpy or hides more than usual — pain (especially chronic dental pain) changes behavior.
Physical Signs You Can Spot at Home
You don’t need to be a vet to notice some clear physical symptoms that signal it’s time for a dental check-up:
Bad breath that goes beyond normal cat breath (a strong, foul odor can mean infection).
Red, swollen gums — a warning sign of gingivitis.
Visible tartar buildup — brownish deposits along the gumline.
Loose or broken teeth, which often indicate advanced disease.
Drooling (especially if it’s new behavior).
Pawing at the mouth or face, which could mean pain or discomfort.
Why Acting Early Matters
Waiting is not your friend when it comes to dental health. By the time a cat shows visible signs, the disease is often already advanced — and much harder (and more expensive) to treat. Regular dental cleanings, paired with quick action if you notice these signs, helps your cat stay healthy, comfortable, and happy for years to come.
Professional vs. At-Home Dental Care: What Matters Most for Your Cat’s Teeth
Good dental health is a team effort — and you (the cat parent) play just as important a role as your vet. While professional cleanings are essential for deep cleaning and diagnosing hidden problems, at-home care is the daily defense that keeps your cat’s mouth healthier between visits.
Why Professional Dental Cleanings are Non-Negotiable
Even if you’re religious about brushing your cat’s teeth (and let’s be honest — most cats don’t make that easy), you can’t fully prevent plaque and tartar buildup on your own. Professional cleanings allow your vet to:
Detect hidden problems like resorptive lesions or infections lurking below the gumline.
Take full-mouth X-rays to spot disease you’d never see with the naked eye.
Remove hardened plaque and tartar from tricky places your brush can’t reach.
Prevent gum disease from advancing into painful infections, bone loss, and tooth extractions.
Vets recommend annual cleanings for most cats, starting by age 1 or 2. For cats with a history of dental disease, cleanings every 6 months may be needed.
What You Can Do at Home (And Why It Matters)
At-home dental care isn’t a replacement for professional cleanings, but it’s your best tool for slowing down plaque buildup. Think of it like regular oil changes for your car — it keeps things running smoothly between tune-ups.
Here’s what works best at home:
Toothbrushing with cat-safe toothpaste — aim for a few times a week (daily is gold-standard).
Dental treats and chews that are VOHC-approved (Veterinary Oral Health Council) — they help physically scrub teeth.
Water additives that help fight plaque while they drink.
Matatabi sticks (a cat-safe chew stick that some cats love) — natural chewing can help scrape teeth.
Pro tip: Always offer fresh water after meals. It helps rinse food particles off the teeth before they turn into plaque.
The Bottom Line:
✅ Professional cleanings = deep cleaning + diagnosis + treatment.
✅ At-home care = daily prevention that makes cleanings less frequent and severe.
Together, they’re the perfect combo for protecting your cat’s teeth — and their overall health.
Professional dental care by Simon Veterinary Surgical
Cat Dental Cleaning Process: What Actually Happens During a Professional Cleaning
A proper cat dental cleaning is way more than just scraping plaque off teeth. It’s a multi-step medical procedure that protects your cat’s health while ensuring their comfort and safety from start to finish.
Step 1: Pre-Cleaning Checkup & Safety Prep
Before anything else, your vet does a full pre-operative exam to make sure your cat is healthy enough for general anesthesia. This typically includes:
A physical exam to check heart, lungs, and overall health.
Bloodwork to assess organ function (especially liver and kidneys, which process anesthesia).
Tailored anesthesia planning based on your cat’s age, health history, and individual risk factors.
This step matters because dental cleanings under anesthesia are a real medical procedure, not just a grooming appointment.
Step 2: Anesthesia & Monitoring
Once cleared, your cat is placed under general anesthesia — usually using isoflurane gas, which is widely used for feline dental procedures because it’s safe, fast-acting, and easy to adjust. Throughout the procedure, your cat’s:
Heart rate
Oxygen levels
Blood pressure
Body temperature
…are continuously monitored by trained veterinary staff. This level of care ensures safety every step of the way.
Step 3: Full-Mouth X-Rays (Radiographs)
Before cleaning even begins, the vet takes dental radiographs to check below the gumline. Why? Because over half of each tooth lives below the surface, and that’s where resorption, fractures, and infections hide. Without X-rays, you’re only getting half the picture.
Step 4: Scaling & Polishing
The actual cleaning starts with ultrasonic scalers, which gently remove:
Plaque (the soft, sticky film full of bacteria)
Calculus (tartar) (the hardened version of plaque that brushing can’t remove)
Once the teeth are clean, they’re polished to smooth out the enamel. This slows down future plaque buildup — because smoother surfaces are harder for bacteria to stick to.
Step 5: Final Treatments & Barrier Application
If any problems were found (like loose teeth, resorptive lesions, or deep infection), your vet may perform:
Extractions for severely damaged teeth.
Gum treatments if inflammation is severe.
Application of an OraVet Barrier — a special coating that helps block plaque from forming after the cleaning.
Step 6: Recovery & Aftercare
Once the cleaning and any necessary treatments are done, your cat is closely monitored while they wake up from anesthesia. Most cats are ready to go home by early afternoon. Your vet will send you home with:
Pain medication (if needed).
Home care instructions to help keep those teeth clean between professional visits.
The takeaway: A true professional cat dental cleaning is a carefully managed medical process — and every step matters for your cat’s comfort, safety, and long-term health.Frequency of Cat Dental Cleanings
Cost of Cat Dental Cleaning Services
How much does a cat dental cleaning cost? The answer depends — and the range is wider than most pet owners expect. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $400 for a routine cleaning. If your cat already has dental disease, or if they need extractions, X-rays, or advanced care, the total can climb to $500, $1,000, or even more.
What Affects the Price?
There’s no single flat fee because several factors shape the final cost, including:
1️⃣ How Healthy Your Cat’s Mouth Is
Routine cleaning: lower cost if your cat’s teeth are in good shape.
Advanced disease: costs rise if extractions, gum treatments, or additional medication are needed.
2️⃣ Your Cat’s Age & Health History
Older cats (especially those who’ve never had dental care) often need more extensive work.
Cats with existing health conditions may need extra blood tests or monitoring under anesthesia, increasing costs.
3️⃣ Geographic Location
In cities, especially high-cost areas, prices tend to be higher than in rural areas.
Specialty veterinary dental clinics (board-certified dentistry specialists) typically charge more than general vet clinics.
4️⃣ Anesthesia & Monitoring
Safe dental cleanings always require general anesthesia, which means anesthesia drugs, monitoring, and recovery care are part of the price.
5️⃣ Diagnostic Imaging
Full-mouth dental X-rays (recommended by nearly all experts) can add $50 to $150 to the bill — but they’re crucial for detecting hidden disease.
What You’re Really Paying For
A professional cat dental cleaning isn’t just a quick polish — you’re paying for:
Pre-procedure exam & bloodwork to ensure safe anesthesia.
Anesthesia itself, including careful monitoring.
Full scaling & polishing of every tooth, above and below the gumline.
X-rays to detect hidden disease.
Expert evaluation of each tooth’s health.
Post-procedure pain management and recovery care.
Comparing Costs — And What Pet Insurance Covers
In the U.S., routine cat dental cleanings ranged from $113 to $600 as of 2023, with advanced care (like multiple extractions) pushing costs up to $2,000 or more. Some pet insurance policies cover dental cleanings if they’re part of a preventive care package — but many only cover dental work if it’s related to an accident or injury.
💡 Pro tip: Ask your vet for a detailed estimate upfront, especially if it’s been a while since your cat’s last cleaning. And if your cat has existing dental issues, be prepared for potential additional costs beyond a basic cleaning.
For a better understanding of costs, here's a simple breakdown:
| Component | Average Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Professional Dental Cleaning | $100 - $400 |
| Anesthesia | Included |
| Dental X-rays | $50 - $150 |
| Advanced Treatments (extractions, root canals) | $500 - $2,000 |
These varied factors and costs show why getting detailed quotes is key. Talking to your vet about a dental check-up tells you the pet dental care expensesYour cat will face. This lets you budget for the best oral health care. For more info, check out this detailed guide on the topic.
Maintaining Your Cat’s Dental Health: Simple Habits That Make a Big Difference
Good dental health doesn’t end at the vet’s office. What you do at home every day has a huge impact on how often your cat needs professional cleanings — and how likely they are to develop painful dental disease.
Daily Dental Care: What Actually Works
Brushing your cat’s teeth is the #1 most effective way to fight plaque and gum disease — but it’s also the thing cat owners skip the most. Why? Because most cats hate it — at first.
The key is starting slow and making it positive:
Begin by gently handling their mouth so they get used to the sensation.
Gradually introduce a cat-specific toothbrush (finger brushes are often easier).
Use only cat-safe toothpaste — never human toothpaste, which contains ingredients that are toxic to cats.
Start with just a few seconds at a time, working up to 30-60 seconds per side.
💡 Pro tip: Even if you only manage brushing a few times a week, that’s still much better than nothing.
Professional Check-Ups Still Matter
Even with perfect home care, cats still need professional cleanings.
By age 2, your cat should have their first professional dental cleaning.
After that, most cats need cleanings once a year — more often if they’re prone to dental issues.
Regular check-ups catch problems early, often before they cause pain or become expensive to fix.
Dental Treats & Toys: Do They Help?
Dental treats and toys can help — but they’re not a substitute for brushing. Think of them as bonus tools:
Treats like Greenies™ or Purina® Pro Plan® Crunchy Bites can help scrub teeth while your cat chews.
Certain chew toys (like Matatabi sticks) can also reduce plaque buildup through natural chewing action.
Dry food vs. wet food? It’s a myth that dry food alone prevents dental disease, but some dental-specific kibbles (approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council) can help.
The Best Combo for Long-Term Dental Health
🦷 Daily brushing — the gold standard.
🦷 Dental treats & toys — helpful extras.
🦷 Annual professional cleanings — essential for deep cleaning and diagnosis.
Start early and stay consistent. The earlier your cat gets used to dental care, the easier it will be — and the healthier they’ll stay.Common Cat Dental Procedures
Good dental care is key for your cat's health. Tooth extractions and treatments for gum disease are very important. They help stop bigger health problems from happening.
Tooth Extractions and When They Are Needed
When a cat's tooth is badly decayed, broken, or hurts a lot, it might need to be pulled out. If the tooth is damaged by resorptive lesions, it's often best to remove it. Our team also does x-rays during this to make sure they get everything out, caring for your pet fully.
After the tooth is taken out, it's important to take care of your cat right. This means giving them their medicine and following the vet's care tips closely. Doing this helps avoid problems and helps your cat heal faster.
Treatment for Gum Disease
Starting with a professional teeth cleaning, treating gum disease in cats involves several steps. This cleaning removes plaque and tartar that can cause serious gum disease if not handled. Based on how bad it is, your cat might also need medicine or surgery. To find out how severe the gum disease is, cats usually need to have x-rays and full mouth checks while under anesthesia.
To prevent gum disease, it's crucial to keep up with dental cleanings and daily care at home. Brushing your cat's teeth and giving them dental treats can greatly lower the chance of dental issues. For tips on how to take care of your cat's teeth, check out this detailed guide on cat dental cleaning.
Also, taking your cat for vet check-ups regularly helps find and treat dental problems early. This keeps your pet both healthy and happy.
The Role of Diet in Your Cat’s Dental Health
What your cat eats directly affects their teeth. While regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential, choosing the right food can help reduce plaque and tartar buildup — or make it worse.
Best Foods for Dental Health
✅ VOHC-Approved Dental Diets
The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) certifies foods proven to reduce plaque and tartar. These special kibbles are designed to:
Use larger pieces that encourage chewing (not just swallowing whole).
Have special textures that mechanically scrub teeth as your cat chews.
✅ Dry Food — Sometimes Helpful, But Not a Cure-All
Some studies show cats who eat dental-specific kibble (larger, specially textured pieces) have less tartar and gingivitis.
But regular dry food? It’s not enough on its own — and some cats barely chew it at all.
✅ Dental Chews & Treats
Products like Greenies™ or Oravet™ Chews can help reduce tartar if used regularly.
💡 Important: Treats should be occasional supplements — not the main dental strategy.
Foods That Hurt Dental Health
❌ Soft, Sticky Foods
Wet food tends to cling to teeth more than dry food, which can lead to faster plaque buildup. This doesn’t mean you have to avoid wet food entirely, but if your cat eats mostly wet food, brushing becomes even more important.
❌ Sugary Treats
While sugary snacks are rare for cats, some human foods offered as treats (like yogurt or milk-based products) feed bacteria in the mouth, speeding up plaque formation.
❌ Excessively Hard Chews
Bones or ultra-hard dental chews can crack teeth, especially in older cats whose teeth are more brittle. Dental fractures can lead directly to pain, infection, and extractions.
What’s the Ideal Approach?
The best dental diet for your cat includes:
A high-quality, balanced cat food suited to their age and health.
If needed, a VOHC-approved dental formula for additional plaque control.
Dental treats in moderation.
Fresh water always available — it helps rinse away food particles.
Most importantly, regular brushing and professional cleanings — because no food can fully prevent dental disease.
Diet helps — but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Smart food choices combined with home care and professional care is the winning formula for lifelong dental health.
The role of diet in your cat’s dental health
Why Early Intervention in Cat Dental Care Makes All the Difference
Dental disease doesn’t happen overnight — but once it starts, it progresses fast. About 70% of cats over age 3 already show signs of periodontal disease, often without any obvious symptoms. That’s why early detection and action are critical.
Catching Problems Before They Get Painful — Or Expensive
The goal of early intervention is simple: find and fix minor issues before they become major problems.
Plaque becomes tartar.
Tartar irritates the gums.
Gingivitis turns into periodontal disease.
Over time, that can lead to tooth loss, infections, and even damage to the heart, kidneys, or liver.
The earlier you step in, the easier (and cheaper) it is to fix.
Spotting the First Signs of Trouble
Cats are masters of disguise when it comes to pain, so your cat probably won’t show obvious distress. Instead, watch for these subtle clues:
Bad breath — not just “cat breath,” but a sour or rotten smell.
Red, swollen, or bleeding gums.
Change in eating habits — favoring soft food, chewing only on one side, or eating slower.
Pawing at the mouth or avoiding head rubs.
Drooling (especially if it’s new).
Visible tartar buildup along the gumline.
Why Preventive Care Pays Off — In More Ways Than One
When you catch and treat dental disease early, you’re not just saving your cat from pain — you’re protecting their whole body. Bacteria from inflamed gums can enter the bloodstream and damage the:
Heart
Kidneys
Liver
Regular professional cleanings remove hidden plaque, spot brewing problems, and let your vet treat small issues before they become big (and expensive) ones.
The Best Dental Routine (That Actually Works)
Annual dental exams starting by age 1.
Professional cleanings every 12 months — or more if your cat is prone to dental disease.
Daily brushing at home to fight plaque before it hardens into tartar.
Smart diet choices (like VOHC-approved dental foods) to reduce buildup.
Pay attention to small changes — and call your vet at the first sign of trouble.
With dental disease, earlier is always better. Waiting almost always leads to more pain for your cat — and a bigger bill for you.
How to Choose the Right Dental Service for Your Cat
Not all veterinary dental care is created equal. Choosing the right provider means finding a team you trust — not just to clean your cat’s teeth, but to catch problems early, provide safe anesthesia, and handle any surprises during the procedure.
Here’s exactly what to look for — and what to ask — before you book your cat’s dental appointment.
What to Look for in a Veterinary Dental Provider
🔎 Accreditation & Training
Look for clinics where the vets stay up to date with advanced training in veterinary dentistry.
Clinics with a board-certified veterinary dentist on staff (or available for referrals) are ideal for complex cases.
🔎 Complete Dental Services
The clinic should offer full-mouth X-rays, ultrasonic scaling, polishing, and extractions if needed.
Avoid any clinic that promotes “anesthesia-free cleanings” — these are not recommended by major veterinary associations because they miss the most serious problems.
🔎 Modern Equipment
Ask if they use digital dental X-rays (critical for seeing below the gumline).
Make sure they follow strict anesthesia safety protocols, including continuous monitoring during the procedure.
Questions to Ask at Your Consultation
Here’s a cheat sheet of must-ask questions when you’re evaluating a dental provider:
1️⃣ What’s included in your dental cleaning package?
2️⃣ Do you take full-mouth X-rays?
3️⃣ How do you monitor my cat during anesthesia?
4️⃣ What’s your approach if you find a problem (like a loose tooth) during the cleaning?
5️⃣ What pain management do you offer after extractions?
6️⃣ What training does your team have in feline dentistry?
7️⃣ What kind of at-home care guidance will you provide afterward?
Pro Tip: Don’t Wait Until There’s a Problem
If you’re choosing a vet for your cat’s first dental cleaning, aim to schedule it by age 1 — even if their teeth look fine. Preventive cleanings are much easier (and cheaper) than waiting until advanced dental disease sets in.
Bottom Line: The right dental provider isn’t just a clinic with dental tools — it’s a team that treats dental health as a vital part of your cat’s whole-body care.
FAQs About Cat Dental Cleaning
Keeping your cat’s teeth clean isn’t just about fresh breath — it’s about protecting their health from mouth to organs. Below are straightforward answers to the most common questions cat owners ask about dental care.
🐾 Why is regular dental care so important for my cat?
Because dental disease doesn’t stay in the mouth. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream, increasing the risk of heart, liver, and kidney disease. Regular care keeps their teeth healthy — and helps protect their whole body.
🐾 My cat’s eating fine — does that mean their teeth are healthy?
Not necessarily. Cats are experts at hiding pain. They can have serious dental disease — including infected roots, resorption, or gum infections — while still eating normally. That’s why regular exams and X-rays are essential.
🐾 How often does my cat actually need a dental cleaning?
Most cats need a professional dental cleaning once a year, starting around age 1 to 2. Cats with a history of dental issues might need cleanings every 6 months. Your vet can recommend the right schedule based on your cat’s health and breed.
🐾 Is anesthesia really necessary for a cat dental cleaning?
Yes — always. Without anesthesia, the vet can’t:
Take dental X-rays (critical for seeing under the gums).
Properly clean below the gumline, where most problems hide.
Thoroughly examine every tooth for damage, infection, or resorption.
Awake cleanings are not effective and can be stressful — or even dangerous — for cats.
🐾 What are the signs my cat might need a dental cleaning?
Watch for these red flags:
Bad breath (a foul, sour smell).
Red or bleeding gums.
Visible tartar buildup.
Dropping food while eating.
Avoiding dry food or chewing only on one side.
Suddenly avoiding head rubs.
Excessive drooling.
🐾 What’s better: professional cleanings or at-home brushing?
Both are important.
Professional cleanings remove tartar and detect hidden problems.
At-home brushing helps slow down plaque buildup between cleanings.
Add dental treats or water additives for extra prevention — but these can’t replace brushing or professional care.
🐾 What if my cat hates tooth brushing?
Start slowly, and keep sessions short and positive. Even brushing a few times a week can make a big difference. If brushing is impossible, talk to your vet about dental diets, water additives, and approved dental treats — they’re not perfect, but they help.
🐾 Are dental problems really that common in cats?
Extremely common. By age 3, over 70% of cats already have some form of dental disease — and many cat owners don’t notice until it’s severe. Dental care is preventive medicine, not just cosmetic.
🐾 What’s the cost of cat dental cleanings?
Basic cleanings typically cost $100 to $400, but prices can go over $1,000 if extractions, X-rays, or advanced treatments are needed. Preventive cleanings are much cheaper than treating advanced disease.
🐾 What are some common dental issues in cats?
Cats often face tartar buildup, gingivitis, periodontal disease, and tooth resorption. These problems can make eating painful and, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss, infections, and whole-body health problems.
🐾 What happens during a cat dental cleaning at Simon Veterinary Surgical?
At a dental cleaning, we:
Perform a thorough oral exam.
Remove plaque and tartar using ultrasonic scalers.
Polish teeth to reduce future plaque buildup.
Take full-mouth radiographs to check below the gumline for hidden problems.
Treat any issues found — such as extractions if necessary.
🐾 How can I tell if my cat needs a dental cleaning?
Signs to watch for include:
Bad breath.
Red, swollen gums.
Visible tartar.
Avoiding hard food or chewing only on one side.
Pawing at their mouth.
Acting irritable or grooming less.
🐾 What are the benefits of professional cat dental care versus at-home care?
Professional care:
Removes tartar and plaque you can’t reach at home.
Catches hidden dental issues early.
Provides X-rays to detect disease under the gums.
At-home care:
Helps slow down plaque buildup between professional cleanings.
Keeps gums healthier when paired with regular brushing and dental treats.
🐾 What are the steps involved in a cat dental cleaning process?
Pre-cleaning exam and bloodwork to clear for anesthesia.
General anesthesia for a calm, thorough cleaning.
Scaling and polishing.
Full-mouth radiographs to check below the gumline.
Post-cleaning recovery with pain management if needed.
🐾 How often should my cat receive dental cleanings?
Most cats need a professional dental cleaning once a year, starting at age 1. Cats with past dental issues, certain breeds, or other risk factors may need cleanings every 6 months.
🐾 What affects the cost of cat dental cleaning services?
Costs vary based on:
Your cat’s age and dental condition.
The type of clinic (general practice vs. specialist).
Whether advanced treatments like X-rays or extractions are needed.
Your geographic location.
🐾 What daily care routines can help maintain my cat’s dental health?
Brush their teeth several times a week with cat-safe toothpaste.
Use dental treats and toys to help control plaque.
Ensure regular annual dental exams.
🐾 When is a tooth extraction necessary for my cat?
Extractions happen when a tooth is:
Severely decayed.
Broken beyond repair.
Causing pain or infection.
🐾 How does diet affect my cat’s dental health?
VOHC-approved dental diets can reduce plaque.
Wet food tends to stick to teeth more than dry food.
Avoid sugary snacks and very hard chews that could crack teeth.
🐾 Why is early intervention in dental care important?
Early treatment means less pain, lower cost, and better outcomes.
Dental disease caught early can often be treated without extractions.
Ignoring early signs can lead to infection spreading to vital organs.
🐾 What should I look for when choosing a dental service for my cat?
Look for accredited vets with specialized dental training.
Ask about their anesthesia safety, imaging equipment, and follow-up care.
Choose a provider who educates owners — not just treats pets.
🐾 What are some common myths and misconceptions about cat dental care?
Myth: “Cats clean their own teeth.”
Fact: They don’t — dental disease is incredibly common in cats.Myth: “If my cat’s eating fine, their teeth are fine.”
Fact: Cats hide pain, so they could be eating through discomfort.
