Introduction
Proper dental care is extremely important for a dog’s overall health and wellbeing. According to the AVMA, dental problems can cause or be exacerbated by other health issues. Pet dental care. Dental disease is one of the most common issues veterinarians see in dogs. Tartar buildup, gum infection, and tooth decay can lead to pain, tooth loss, and potentially serious systemic problems. Keeping your dog’s teeth clean is a key part of preventative healthcare.
While regular brushing is ideal, many dogs dislike or resist having their teeth brushed. Ultrasonic cleaners provide an effective at-home solution for cleaning your dog’s teeth thoroughly and safely. These cleaners use sound waves to disrupt plaque and tartar, reducing bacteria and cleaning deep between teeth. Using an ultrasonic cleaner at home can keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy between professional veterinary dental cleanings.
How Ultrasonic Cleaners Work
Ultrasonic cleaners use high frequency sound waves to agitate and dislodge plaque and tartar from a dog’s teeth 1. The ultrasonic cleaner contains a transducer that converts electrical energy into vibrations that create sound waves beyond the range of human hearing, usually around 25,000-40,000 Hz. When these ultrasonic waves pass through a liquid cleaning solution, they create bubbles that rapidly form and collapse in a process called cavitation. The continuous formation and violent implosion of these tiny bubbles dislodges plaque, tartar, and bacteria from the tooth surface and below the gumline.
The main advantage of ultrasonic cleaners over manual brushing is their ability to thoroughly clean a dog’s entire mouth in minutes. The cavitation bubbles can reach tight spaces between teeth and under the gumline to break up plaque and tartar in areas a toothbrush often misses. This makes routine home cleanings faster, more convenient and effective compared to manual brushing alone 2. Ultrasonic cleaning also reduces the risk of abrasion or irritation to gums compared to scraping tools.
Choosing an Ultrasonic Cleaner
When selecting an ultrasonic cleaner for your dog, there are a few key factors to consider:
Size – Make sure to choose a model that is large enough to accommodate your dog’s mouth but not too large. Look for compact sizes that will be easy to handle.
Power – More powerful cleaners with higher wattages will provide stronger ultrasonic waves for cleaning. Look for at least 35-50 watts.
Heat settings – Models with adjustable heat allow you to use warm water, which can improve cleaning. Look for heat settings up to at least 104°F.
Timers – Built-in timers allow you to set the cleaning duration, typically 1-5 minutes. This ensures you don’t over-clean.
Some popular ultrasonic cleaner models for dogs include:
Hbada Dog Tooth Cleaner – With 35 watts of power and a compact size, this is a budget-friendly option. It includes two cleaning modes and a basket for small items. Hbada Dog Tooth Cleaner on Amazon
Aogist Dog Teeth Cleaner – This 50 watt ultrasonic cleaner allows you to adjust temperature up to 104°F. It has a large tank and touch screen controls. Aogist Dog Teeth Cleaner on Amazon
Coospider Teeth Cleaner – With multiple heating modes up to 122°F, a built-in LED light, and 50 watts of power, this is a high-end option. Coospider Teeth Cleaner on Amazon
Using the Ultrasonic Cleaner
Using an ultrasonic cleaner on your dog’s teeth involves a few simple steps:
- Fill the cleaner reservoir with water and add the appropriate cleaning solution (see Cleaning Solutions section). Follow manufacturer instructions for the right ratio of water to solution.
- Place your dog in a comfortable position where you can access their mouth. Have treats ready to reward cooperation.
- Turn the cleaner on and allow it to fully heat up and start ultrasonic vibration.
- Lift your dog’s lips to expose the teeth. Gently insert the cleaner tip and move it along each tooth, focusing on areas with visible tartar buildup. Spend about 10-30 seconds per tooth.
- Make sure to get all surfaces of the teeth – front, back, and chewing surfaces.
- Periodically wipe the tip clean and re-insert in cleaner to remove debris.
- Aim to clean the entire mouth in 5-10 minutes per session.
Tips for getting dogs comfortable:
- Go slowly and work up to longer cleaning sessions.
- Give treats and praise throughout for cooperation.
- Make it part of their regular grooming routine.
- Try a little peanut butter on the teething to distract them.
- Be calm and assertive so they pick up on your confidence.
Cleaning Solutions
When using an ultrasonic cleaner for your dog’s teeth, it’s important to use the right cleaning solution. The solution loosens plaque and tartar to allow the ultrasonic waves to remove them effectively. There are two main types of cleaning solutions to consider:
Enzymatic solutions contain enzymes that break down plaque and tartar. These solutions are very effective at dissolving organic material on the teeth. Some popular enzymatic cleaners for dogs’ teeth include Petosan Gel and Tropiclean Fresh Breath Plaque Remover Gel.
Antiseptic solutions contain antiseptic ingredients like chlorhexidine to disinfect the mouth and prevent future plaque buildup. Some examples are Pet King Fresh Breath and MouthPleaser Dog Antiseptic Rinse. Be sure to follow instructions, as some antiseptic rinses are meant to be diluted before use.
When choosing a cleaning solution, look for one formulated specifically for pets and follow the usage instructions. Avoid solutions with harsh chemicals like bleach, which can irritate a dog’s mouth. Only put your dog’s ultrasonic cleaner to use with solutions intended for oral health and cleaning.
With the right enzymatic or antiseptic solution, ultrasonic cleaning can safely and effectively help promote your dog’s dental health.
Safety Tips
When using an ultrasonic cleaner at home for your dog’s teeth, there are some important safety precautions to keep in mind:
Always closely supervise your dog during the cleaning process. Ultrasonic cleaners can heat up quickly, and ingesting the cleaning solution can be dangerous for dogs. Keep an eye on your dog at all times.
Make sure your dog’s head stays above the water line in the cleaning tank. Their nose and mouth should not be submerged or they could inhale water or solution. Use towels or other props to keep their head elevated if needed.
Rinse your dog’s mouth thoroughly with clean water when finished. This removes any remaining cleaning solution residue. According to Wag Walking, ingesting ultrasonic scaling solution can cause stomach upset in dogs.
Store ultrasonic cleaning solutions safely out of your dog’s reach, as ingestion could be toxic. Only mix solutions as needed before cleaning sessions.
Always follow all manufacturer instructions for safe operation and handling of ultrasonic cleaning equipment and solutions.
Aftercare
After an ultrasonic cleaning, it’s important to continue caring for your dog’s teeth at home. The best time to get serious about home dental care is after a thorough professional cleaning, but wait about a week before starting to avoid causing any discomfort.1 Here are some tips for aftercare following ultrasonic cleaning:
Continue brushing your dog’s teeth daily, which helps remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. Gently brush all surfaces of the teeth in a circular motion. Rinsing your dog’s mouth with an oral rinse solution can also help reduce plaque.
Providing dental treats and chews helps scrape away plaque and tartar. Look for treats made specifically for dental health, like Greenies or CET chews, which are formulated to gently clean teeth. Avoid any hard, weight-bearing bones, which can crack teeth.2
Follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for any at-home care or prescribed medications after professional dental cleaning. Proper aftercare will help your dog maintain good dental health longer after ultrasonic cleaning.
Maintenance
It’s important to properly maintain an ultrasonic cleaner to ensure it operates effectively and safely over time. Here are some tips for cleaning, disinfecting, and storing the unit:
After each use, unplug the ultrasonic cleaner and empty out any water and cleaning solution. Use a soft cloth to wipe away any debris or stains on the stainless steel basin. A 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water can help remove mineral deposits. Rinse and wipe dry before the next use.
For thorough disinfecting, fill the basin with warm water and a few drops of chlorine bleach or other antibacterial solution. Let it soak for 5-10 minutes, then rinse and dry. This helps kill germs and prevent cross-contamination between cleanings (Skyline Animal Hospital).
When not in use, store the ultrasonic cleaner unit in a cool, dry place, with the power cord neatly wrapped. Make sure the basin is completely dry before storage to prevent mold or mildew buildup.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any additional cleaning and maintenance recommendations. With proper care, an ultrasonic cleaner can remain effective for years.
When to See a Vet
Although regular at-home dental care is important, it is not a substitute for professional veterinary dental cleanings and exams. There are certain signs that indicate your dog may have dental disease that requires veterinary attention:
- Bad breath that doesn’t resolve with home care
- Excessive drooling
- Difficulty eating or chewing
- Loose or discolored teeth
- Swelling of the mouth, face, or lips
- Broken or exposed tooth roots
For optimal dental health and disease prevention, the American Veterinary Medical Association recommends annual veterinary dental examinations starting from one year of age. Your veterinarian will be able to spot issues not visible at home and provide a thorough teeth cleaning above and below the gum line.
During the dental exam, your vet may take dental x-rays to check for abnormalities below the surface. Professional cleanings remove tartar buildup and plaque bacteria that can lead to infection, gum disease, and tooth loss if left untreated.
While the cost of a veterinary dental cleaning may seem high, addressing dental problems early is much more affordable and comfortable for your dog than extracting severely damaged teeth or dealing with a painful infection later on. Prevention and early detection are key when it comes to your dog’s oral health.
Conclusion
Ultimately, utilizing an ultrasonic cleaner is one of the best ways to keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy at home. The powerful ultrasonic waves penetrate deep between teeth and below the gumline in ways that regular brushing simply can’t. This helps break up plaque and tartar to prevent serious dental disease.
Regular ultrasonic cleanings will keep your dog’s breath fresh, reduce bacteria in their mouth, and allow you to spot dental problems early. Your pet will experience less discomfort from dental issues, improved overall health, and may even enjoy longer life expectancy.
Dog owners wanting the very best care for their pet’s teeth should strongly consider implementing ultrasonic cleanings into their oral hygiene routine. It’s a simple way to improve your dog’s quality of life and avoid expensive dental cleanings at the vet.
