How Much Is Dog Teeth Cleaning? Cost, Hidden Fees & Saving Tips

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Most pet parents consider dental cleanings optional, like doggy spa days or boutique sweaters. But here’s the truth: untreated dental disease doesn’t just cause discomfort—it can lead to serious infections, tooth loss, and even damage to your dog’s heart, liver, and kidneys. And the real shocker? The cost of ignoring it often far outweighs the price of a cleaning. On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $1,500, with the variation influenced by the complexity of the procedure and additional services. But why does the cost vary much? Is it all just about location—or is your vet upselling you? In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the cost of dog dental cleanings—from what’s included and what’s not, to how to spot hidden fees and save money without compromising your pup’s health. Let’s bite into it.

Cost of Dog Dental Cleaning

Here’s a breakdown of typical dental cleaning cost costs:

• Low-End Services ($100–$300): Nonprofit clinics or low-cost veterinary services often offer basic cleanings. These procedures usually exclude extras like X-rays or extractions and may be more common in rural areas.
• Mid-Range Services ($300–$800): Comprehensive dental cleanings performed by licensed veterinarians. This cost typically includes anesthesia, professional scaling and polishing, and possibly a post-procedure consultation. Additional services like bloodwork or minor tooth extractions may push the price higher.
• High-End Services ($800–$1,500+): Advanced dental procedures requiring detailed diagnostics, full-mouth X-rays, multiple tooth extractions, or specialized care for dental diseases. These are more common in urban areas or for dogs with severe dental issues.

Average Dog Dental Cleaning Cost By State

State	Refined Estimated Cost
Alabama	$275 – $425
Alaska	$375 – $525
Arizona	$325 – $475
Arkansas	$250 – $400
California	$450 – $650
Colorado	$375 – $525
Connecticut	$425 – $575
Delaware	$375 – $525
Florida	$375 – $575
Georgia	$300 – $450
Hawaii	$450 – $650
Idaho	$300 – $450
Illinois	$350 – $500
Indiana	$300 – $450
Iowa	$275 – $425
Kansas	$275 – $425
Kentucky	$250 – $400
Louisiana	$300 – $450
Maine	$375 – $525
Maryland	$400 – $550
Massachusetts	$450 – $600
Michigan	$300 – $450
Minnesota	$300 – $450
Mississippi	$250 – $400
Missouri	$300 – $450
Montana	$300 – $450
Nebraska	$275 – $425
Nevada	$350 – $500
New Hampshire	$375 – $525
New Jersey	$450 – $600
New Mexico	$300 – $450
New York	$450 – $650
North Carolina	$300 – $450
North Dakota	$275 – $425
Ohio	$300 – $450
Oklahoma	$275 – $425
Oregon	$375 – $525
Pennsylvania	$350 – $500
Rhode Island	$425 – $575
South Carolina	$300 – $450
South Dakota	$275 – $425
Tennessee	$300 – $450
Texas	$325 – $500
Utah	$300 – $450
Vermont	$375 – $525
Virginia	$350 – $500
Washington	$450 – $600
West Virginia	$250 – $400
Wisconsin	$300 – $450
Wyoming	$275 – $425

Hidden Costs to Watch Out For

When budgeting for your dog’s dental cleaning, the base price often doesn’t tell the whole story. Several hidden costs can catch pet owners off guard, turning a straightforward procedure into a more expensive experience. Here’s what to watch for and how to prepare:

Example of Cost Breakdown for a Typical Procedure

Here is what you can expect to pay:

• Pre-procedure exam: $50–$100
• Anesthesia: $200–$400
• Cleaning & scaling: $300–$500
• X-Rays: $100–$250
• Tooth extraction (if needed): $50–$150 per tooth
• Medications (antibiotics/pain relief): $20–$50

Factors Influencing the Cost of Dog Dental Cleaning

Here are the key elements that impact the overall expense:

Location

• Urban vs. Rural: Veterinary clinics in urban areas have higher prices due to increased overhead and demand for specialized services. Rural areas often provide more affordable options but may lack access to advanced care.
• Regional Differences: Costs can vary significantly by state or country. For example, dental cleaning in California may be more expensive than in less populated states due to regional cost-of-living differences.

Size of Your Dog

• Small Dogs: Smaller breeds may require less anesthesia, reducing costs. However, small mouths can present unique challenges that might increase the complexity of the procedure.
• Large Dogs: Larger dogs often need more anesthesia and time for cleaning, which can drive up costs.

Health Status

• Underlying Conditions: Dogs with pre-existing health issues like diabetes or heart disease may require additional precautions, such as specialized anesthesia monitoring or pre-procedure testing, increasing costs.
• Dental Condition: Advanced dental problems like severe tartar buildup, gum disease, or infected teeth typically require more extensive work, resulting in higher fees.

Type of Service Provider

• General Veterinarians: Most vets offer dental cleaning services as part of their general practice. Prices here tend to be mid-range.
• Specialized Clinics: Veterinary dentists or clinics focusing exclusively on pet dentistry may charge more but often provide advanced diagnostics and treatments.
• Nonprofit or Low-Cost Clinics: Organizations like ASPCA or local animal shelters may offer affordable options, though services may be limited.

Procedure Complexity

• Routine Cleaning: Basic cleaning involving scaling and polishing is generally more affordable.
• Advanced Procedures: Services such as X-rays, tooth extractions, or gum treatments increase the complexity and cost.

Use of Anesthesia

• Anesthesia Required: Most professional cleanings require anesthesia to ensure your dog is comfortable and still, but this adds significantly to the cost.
• Non-Anesthetic Options: Some clinics offer non-anesthetic cleanings, which are less expensive but may not be suitable for dogs with severe dental issues.

Additional Services

• Extractions or Surgery: Damaged or infected teeth requiring removal will significantly increase the bill.
• Diagnostics: Pre-procedure bloodwork and dental X-rays can raise the price but are often necessary for accurate assessment and safety.

How to Save Money on Dog Dental Cleaning

Here’s a streamlined guide to reducing the costs of your dog’s dental care:

1. Oral health test: This test analyzes the bacteria in your dog’s mouth to assess their oral health. With an at-home Oral Health Test, you can evaluate the health of your dog’s oral microbiome to determine if they need a dental cleaning or other intervention. 
2. Practice preventive care: Brush your dog’s teeth daily, use dental chews and toys, and feed dental-friendly foods to minimize tartar buildup and reduce the frequency of cleanings.
3. Utilize pet insurance: Choose pet insurance plans that cover dental procedures or wellness add-ons to offset the cost of cleanings and other dental care.
4. Leverage discounts: Look for veterinary loyalty programs, seasonal promotions like Pet Dental Health Month, or bundled services for reduced rates.
5. Visit low-cost clinics: Nonprofits, animal shelters, and veterinary schools often provide dental care at lower prices while maintaining high-quality standards.
6. Consider anesthesia-free cleanings: For minor tartar buildup, non-anesthetic cleanings may be an affordable option for dogs without severe dental issues.
7. Shop around for pricing: Request quotes from multiple clinics, compare itemized costs, and negotiate where possible to find the best deal.
8. Stick to routine care: Regular exams and scheduled cleanings help prevent tartar buildup and catch problems early, avoiding expensive advanced treatments.
9. Explore community resources: Look for financial assistance programs, free dental health days, or local nonprofit events offering discounted pet care.

Alternatives to Professional Cleaning

If professional dental cleanings are outside your budget or your dog doesn’t require extensive work, some alternatives can help maintain your pet’s oral health:

Daily tooth brushing: Use a vet-approved toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Regular brushing is one of the most effective ways to avoid dental disease. We use Vet’s Best Dog Toothbrush & Enzymatic Toothpaste Kit.

Dental chews and treats: Products like dental sticks, chews, or rawhide alternatives can help clean your dog’s teeth naturally as they chew. Look for those approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). We recommend Bark Bright’s dental kit or Greenies.

Water additives: Add dental health solutions to your dog’s water bowl to reduce plaque and freshen their breath. These are simple and easy to use daily. Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care Solution could be a great option for your pet.

Dietary adjustments: Feed kibble or specialized diets formulated to promote oral health. These foods are often shaped or textured to clean teeth as your dog chews. Gently cooked dog food and homemade dog food are excellent for maintaining your dog’s dental health because they minimize sugary and starchy residues that contribute to plaque buildup, unlike some commercial kibble. These diets often include fresh, whole ingredients like vegetables and lean proteins that naturally help clean teeth while avoiding harmful additives. Additionally, they can be customized to include nutrients such as calcium and vitamin C, which support strong teeth and healthy gums. The softer textures of gently cooked meals are also gentler on teeth, making them ideal for senior dogs or those with dental issues. Together, these benefits make these diets a natural and effective part of your dog’s oral hygiene routine.

Non-anesthetic dental cleanings: In some cases, anesthesia-free cleanings may be an option for dogs with minimal tartar buildup. However, they may not address issues below the gum line as effectively as professional cleanings.

FAQs

Why Dog Dental Cleaning is Essential

Your dog’s dental health plays a critical role in their overall well-being. Neglecting oral care can lead to pain, disease, and even life-threatening complications. Here’s why regular dental cleaning is vital:

The Bottom Line

Investing in your dog’s dental health is more than just a way to ensure fresh breath—it’s a crucial part of their overall well-being. While the cost of professional dental cleaning can vary widely based on factors like location, your dog’s size, and the complexity of the procedure, understanding these variables helps you make informed decisions about your pet’s care. By incorporating preventative measures like regular brushing, dental chews, and water additives, you can reduce the frequency of professional cleanings and save on costs. Exploring options like pet insurance, wellness plans, and nonprofit clinics can make dental care more affordable without compromising quality.

Moreover, a gut dog health test can be valuable in assessing your dog’s dental health because the gut and oral health are closely interconnected. The presence of certain bacteria in the gut can reflect imbalances that may also be present in the mouth, contributing to dental issues like plaque buildup, gum inflammation, or bad breath. Poor gut health can weaken the immune system, making it harder for your dog to fight off infections, including those in the gums and teeth. By analyzing your dog’s gut microbiome, a gut health test can provide insights into potential deficiencies or imbalances that might indirectly affect their oral health, allowing you to address the root causes with tailored dietary adjustments or supplements.

Similarly, a dog DNA test can identify specific genes associated with dental diseases such as FAM20C and MIA3 Intron 9 (and can help determine if a dog is at risk of developing a severe form of gum, dental disease, or other health issues.

Ultimately, regular dental cleanings and proactive oral hygiene help prevent painful conditions and contribute to a longer, healthier life for your furry companion. A little care goes a long way when it comes to your dog’s smile.

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Sources

Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.