What Is the Cost of Dog Teeth Cleaning in Australia? 2026 Price Update

Dental health is incredibly important for canines; the most common health issue in dogs is periodontal disease, sometimes called gum disease.¹ Almost 90% of dogs will develop some form of periodontal disease by the time they’re 2 years old.

Typically, veterinarians recommend getting your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned yearly. They might recommend more frequent visits if your dog has bad oral health. Unfortunately, dental cleanings can be pricey if you live in Australia. Dog teeth cleaning can cost anywhere from $550 to $1,800 depending on where you live and what kind of dog you have. we’ll discuss how much you can expect to pay in detail.

The Importance of Dog Teeth Cleaning

Since periodontal disease is so prevalent, especially in dogs, it’s important to keep on top of your dog’s oral health. Generally, owners won't notice the signs of periodontal disease until it’s progressed, which is why vets recommend annual cleanings on top of owners brushing their dog’s teeth at home. Professional cleaning allows for an unobstructed view of your dog’s mouth while under anesthesia.

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean will prevent tooth loss and bad breath (halitosis), but it is also responsible for your dog’s overall health. It prevents oral pain and organ damage since plaque bacteria can enter your dog’s bloodstream and spread to the liver, heart, and kidneys. This infection is called bacteremia.²

How Much Does Professional Dog Teeth Cleaning Cost?

The exact price of a typical teeth cleaning bill will vary depending on various factors such as the geographic location, how large your dog is, their age, what you’re getting done, and how healthy your dog’s teeth are. Generally, a bill will include things like:

• Anesthesia
• Exam
• Polishing
• Scaling
• X-rays

Sometimes cleaning isn’t enough, and your dog might need to have a tooth pulled, which will cost you extra. The damage might end up being more extensive than you first thought, and you could have to pay for more than one tooth to be pulled.

Additional Costs to Anticipate

In addition to removing a tooth and cleaning the remaining teeth, other services might be required. For example:

• Root Canal Treatment: $2,200–$3,000
• Odontoplasy: $1,400–$1,900
• Gingivoplasy: $1,300–$1,500
• Extra Anesthesia: $450 per hour

All of these prices are, of course, estimates since the prices can drastically change during the procedure. For example, root canal treatment prices differ depending on which tooth is taken out—canines are cheaper than carnassials. It’s best to ask your service provider for a list of the services they might have to perform after inspecting your dog’s teeth and gums. This should give you an idea of the budget for your upcoming appointment.

How Often Should I Have My Dog’s Teeth Professionally Cleaned?

You should aim to have your dog’s teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year unless directed otherwise by your vet. If your dog has a history of periodontal disease, you might find they need more frequent cleanings. Cleaning your dog’s teeth at home should reduce the number of cleanings your dog needs. However, always go with the treatment your vet suggests.

Does Pet Insurance Cover Dental Cleanings in Australia?

Dental coverage is not typically included in a basic insurance policy in Australia, but sometimes it can be available as an add-on. Deluxe plans can sometimes cover various dental treatments with an annual limit. However, you can examine your policy’s fine print to determine if your insurance covers dental cleanings.

What to Do for Your Dog’s Teeth in Between Cleanings

Good hygiene starts at home, so while professional cleanings are crucial for your dog’s oral and overall health, how you care for their teeth at home is as important. It’s essential to brush your dog’s teeth every day, ideally twice a day or at least three times a week. Toothpaste isn’t something you can share with your dog, as human toothpaste isn’t designed to be swallowed; it can sometimes contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Ensure your dog’s water bowl is clean and refilled at least once daily. This promotes drinking, which will rinse your dog’s mouth between meals. It’s also helpful to get chew toys, as these can help keep your dog’s teeth clean and healthy.

In Conclusion

It can be expensive for professional dental cleaning and extractions in Australia. However, there are ways you can care for your dog’s teeth at home that will minimize the likelihood that your dog will need dental treatment. It’s essential to follow the treatment plan your vet sets out for your dog’s oral health since your dog’s overall health can suffer if its dental health deteriorates. Insurance can sometimes help you with your bills, but not every policy or service provider provides coverage for dental cleaning.

See Also: 

• What Is the Cost of Dog Grooming in Australia?

Featured Image Credit: gpointstudio, Shutterstock