Dog dental care: how to prevent a £500 vet bill
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Dental disease is one of the most common health problems vets see in dogs — and one of the most preventable. A few minutes a day can save your dog pain and you a large bill.
What a dental costs at the vet
| Treatment | Typical UK cost |
|---|---|
| Scale and polish under anaesthetic | £150–£400 (average around £233) |
| Dental X-rays | £100–£250 |
| Extractions | £50–£150+ per tooth |
| Full procedure with X-rays and extractions | £500+ |
Prices from CompareMyVet. Many pet insurance policies exclude or limit dental treatment, so check yours.
Why an anaesthetic?
Dogs won't keep still for cleaning under the gumline, where most dental disease is. "Anaesthetic-free" cleaning only polishes what you can see, and isn't endorsed by the British Veterinary Dental Association.
Prevention that works
- Brush daily with a dog toothpaste and a soft brush or finger brush. Never use human toothpaste — some contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Start young and go slowly: let your dog lick the paste first, then touch the teeth, then brush a few teeth at a time.
- Dental chews and toys can help but don't replace brushing — and count them in your dog's daily calories.
- Ask for a teeth check at every vet visit.
Signs to look out for
Bad breath, red or bleeding gums, brown tartar, dropping food, chewing on one side or pawing at the mouth all mean it's worth booking a check.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If you're worried about your dog's health, speak to your vet.
Last updated September 2026.