Pet Dental Scaling: Why It's Important and What Happens If You Skip It?

What is Tartar and How Does It Form?
Tartar in pets is caused by the accumulation of plaque and food debris on the teeth of dogs and cats. Over time, these deposits harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar usually begins to form along the gumline, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious oral health issues for your pet.

Dangers of Untreated Tartar
• Gingivitis and Easy Bleeding – The buildup of tartar can cause inflammation and redness of the gums. As the condition worsens, the gums may bleed easily even with a gentle touch. If left untreated, the gums can become infected, resulting in pus accumulation beneath the gumline.
• Severe Bad Breath – Bacterial plaque is the main cause of bad breath. If ignored, the bacteria multiply and produce foul-smelling sulfur compounds, which may indicate worsening oral health.
• Loose and Falling Teeth – As tartar thickens, it pushes the gums back, weakening the roots of the teeth. This can lead to tooth mobility and root infections. In severe cases, teeth may fall out on their own or need to be extracted by a veterinarian to prevent pain and infection.
• Receding Gums and Jawbone Loss – Long-term tartar buildup and chronic infections can cause the jawbone to deteriorate, leading to severe pain, difficulty chewing, and a higher risk of jaw fractures.
• Systemic Infections – Bacteria from tartar can enter the bloodstream and spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys, potentially leading to serious illnesses such as endocarditis or kidney failure.
• Loss of Appetite and Weight – Pain from infected teeth and inflamed gums can cause pets to lose interest in eating, resulting in weight loss, a weakened immune system, and increased risk of complications.
• Oral Abscesses and Jawbone Inflammation – Advanced infections may lead to abscesses in the mouth, which can rupture and cause severe infections. Jawbone inflammation may also occur, leading to chronic pain and deformity.

How Dental Scaling Helps
Dental scaling is a professional cleaning procedure performed by a veterinarian to remove plaque and tartar buildup from above and below the gumline. This deep cleaning helps improve your pet’s oral health, reduce the risk of gum disease, and eliminate bad breath.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pet’s Dental Health
• Brush Regularly – Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth regularly helps reduce plaque buildup and slows the formation of tartar.
• Use Dental Toys or Treats – There are specially designed toys and treats that help remove plaque and reduce tartar accumulation.
• Schedule Regular Dental Checkups – Take your pet to the vet for routine dental checkups and scaling to prevent long-term health issues.


Oral health is something that should never be overlooked. Dental scaling is a crucial step in keeping your pet’s teeth healthy and disease-free. Letting tartar build up can lead to serious health problems. That’s why pet owners should prioritize regular dental care for their furry friends—to ensure a long, happy, and healthy life.