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9 Best Dog Tooth Scalers

Written by Jay
BsC (Hons) Animal Behaviour & Welfare graduate with a passion for advocating for misunderstood animals.
Published on
Tuesday 7 September 2021
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
tooth scalers for dogs
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Less than 4% of pet parents brush their dogs’ teeth. In line with this, 80 to 89% of dogs suffer from periodontal disease after the age of three. As a responsible owner, you want to know more about how to prevent painful dental problems for your pooch. But what options are there? Is toothbrushing the only way to keep your dog’s teeth clean? One lesser-known option is tooth scaling at home, which comes with some benefits and a lot of risks. Here, we discuss some of the best dog tooth scalers, so that you can make an informed decision about your pet’s dental care.

A dog tooth scaler is a tool that some pet parents use to remove tartar from the teeth. The sharp or pointy edge works by scraping tartar away from the teeth, preventing plaque build-up. While this tool is extremely useful for this purpose, it can also be difficult for inexperienced owners and owners of easily stressed dogs. Not all dogs will stay still to allow for accurate cleaning, potentially leading to injuries and stress. Because of this, many vets will use anesthetic to thoroughly scale and plane your dog’s teeth.

9 Best Tooth Scalers for Dogs

Looking for the best dog tooth scalers? The best dog tooth scalers will be durable, effective, and easy to use to reduce stress for your dog. Here, we list some of the most popular options on the market today, and discuss what makes them great, or perhaps not so useful.

But before getting to the details, we’d like to give a special mention to the one that stood out from the rest.

Our Best Pick:

Our best pick is the 7 Pieces Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit. At an affordable cost, you get various tooth scrapers, silicone finger toothbrushes, and 3-head dog toothbrushes. With these simple tools, you can help maintain your dog’s teeth and gums healthy.  Here are the rest of the brands worth noting. 

1. Joy Pet 6-1/2-Inch Double Headed Tarter Remover

Keep your pup’s teeth tartar-free with this super-effective scraper. This tooth scraper is made with stainless steel for easy cleaning and durability. Its octagonal handle is knurled to improve your grip as you scrape, giving you more confidence as you work on your pup. This scraper is also double-ended, allowing you to use it for longer by simply flipping it – no fuss and gets the job done in one sitting!

Happy pet parents love the effectiveness of this scraper. Even with regular brushing, some owners find that this scraper is still able to remove tartar from their dog’s teeth. This is because the edges are sharp enough to scrape off tartar and the angles of the edges make for easier scraping action. The scraper is also excellent value for money as it is long lasting and washable.

Some customers bring up the fact that the two ends are the same size, and that they would prefer to see a scraper with two different ends to try. This scraper may also be too large for a small or toy breed, making it awkward to use. So, for owners of smaller dogs, a smaller scraper may be needed to get the most out of the tool.

Pros

  • Easy to use and hygienic stainless steel tooth scraper
  • Knurled octagonal handle for improved grip
  • Affordable and effective

Cons

  • Comes in one size only that is too large for small breeds
  • The cleaning scoops on both ends are of the same size
  • Sharp ends pose a risk of gum injuries

2. OdontoMed2011 Tooth Scaler

This great-value listing is for two OdontoMed2011 Tooth Scalers. Made with stainless steel, this tooth scraper is double-ended and has a knurled handle for an easy grip. While one end measures 4mm, the other measures a slightly wider 5mm.

The OdontoMed2011 Tooth Scaler does not have any reviews yet, but the stainless steel material makes it durable and long lasting, while the double-ended design makes it easier to get the job done in one sitting.

The main downside to this tooth scraper is that both ends are the same shape and very similar sizes. This offers less versatility than other scrapers. You may want to pair this scraper with another scraper for the most effective cleaning.

Pros

  • Stainless steel tooth scaler that removes plaque and tartar
  • Easy grip with its knurled handle
  • Dual cleaning scoops on both ends in different sizes

Cons

  • Both ends are of the same shape making it less versatile
  • Sizes of both ends only differ by 1 mm
  • Needs other tooth scaling devices for effective cleaning

#toothscaler hashtag on Instagram • Photos and videos

3. Mars Stainless Steel Tooth Scaler for Dogs and Cats

Mars Stainless Steel Tooth Scaler is an excellent option for the more experienced pet parent. This scraper may be sharper than others on the market. It is made with a textured handle for better grip. Unlike the other scrapers on our list, this scraper is one-sided.

For customers who want a sharper tool to use, the Mars Stainless Steel Tooth Scaler is a perfect choice! Coupled with the tool’s durability, many owners find that the scraper stays sharp for years. The angled edge also makes it easy and effective to use.

On the downside, this scraper is one-sided, making it less versatile than others. You may not be able to remove enough tartar in one sitting just using one side unless you already have experience using a tooth scaler.

Pros

  • Professional and surgical-grade stainless steel tooth scaler
  • The angled edge makes it ideal for accumulated tartar and plaque
  • With easy grip handles

Cons

  • Single cleaning scoop on one end only
  • Ideal use for right hand only
  • A bit expensive

4. Boao 9 Pieces Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit Includes Tooth Scaler

Looking for a kit that does it all? The Boao 9 Piece Teeth Cleaning Kit includes tweezers, a mirror, two scrapers, a toothpick, finger toothbrushes, and long-handle dual-headed toothbrushes. These tools allow for all-around dental cleaning.

Happy pet parents love how easy the tools are to use! For these owners, it’s easy to remove tartar from the teeth in between professional dental cleanings. The tools are also versatile and offer plenty of ways to clean your pup’s teeth.

Less satisfied buyers state that the tools are dull and cheaply made. For these owners, the tools are too dull to remove enough plaque from the teeth. The toothbrushes that arrive with the kit sometimes arrive flattened, too.

Pros

  • 9-piece pet teeth cleaning tools in one kit
  • Different pieces offer multi-functions for all-around deep cleaning   
  • Economical, easy to use, clean, and store

Cons

  • Mixed reviews on the quality and durability of the tools
  • A scaler may be too dull for plaque removal while brushes wouldn’t stay in shape

5. Stainless Steel Tooth Scraper Plaque Tartar Remover for Dogs

Regular dental hygiene for your canine companion helps prevent gum diseases along the way. Upgrade your normal pet toothbrushing routine by deep cleaning with Stainless Steel Tooth Scraper set. This oral care set contains six tools including different kinds of scraper, a tweezer, and a mouth mirror. Plus, it comes with a carrying case for easy storage or transport when you travel with your pooch. These dental tools are made of stainless steel, so they are durable and hygienic. 

The sharp ends of the dental scraper come with a silicone cover for safety. The tools included in the kit are not only suitable for dogs, but for humans too. However, some reviews state that the mouth mirror included in the set doesn’t have anti-fogging properties. So, it may be hard to use on the mouth as it clouds the reflection. Also, while the tools are of good quality, the carrying case seems to show otherwise.

Pros

  • 6-piece stainless steel oral care set
  • Designed for deep cleaning not just for pets, but for humans too   
  • Comes with a carrying case for easy storage

Cons

  • Mouth mirror fogs making it hard to see the interior side of the teeth
  • The carrying case is not of good quality with zippers easily getting damaged

6. Hotop 3 Pieces Dog Dental Tooth Scaler and Scraper

Keep things simple by getting the basic pet teeth cleaning tools with 3 Pieces Dog Dental Tooth Scaler and Scraper. Despite getting just 3 pieces, you still get the job done because each end of the tool functions differently. Dual ends feature different scaler and scraper sizes. They are also designed with different angles and shapes to meet various cleaning needs. Save time and money on vet dental visits by maintaining your pet’s oral hygiene at home with this dental kit. 

However, because most of these tools are sharp, you need to be careful when using them. Otherwise, your dog will be at risk of gum or tooth injuries. Seek professional advice if you are unsure which tool to use and how to handle them. Also, take note that the dental mirror and carrying case are missing from this oral care set. 

Pros

  • 3-piece basic stainless steel dental kit
  • Each dental tool has differently angled and shaped ends for various cleaning needs   
  • Affordable and versatile

Cons

  • Sharp ends pose a risk of gum injuries for unfamiliar dog owners
  • The dental mirror and carrying case are not included

7. Chengu 7 Pieces Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit

Provide complete pet dental cleaning at home with this affordable 7 Pieces Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit. Aside from the 3 tooth scalers and scrapers, this set also comes with 3-head dog toothbrushes and silicone dog finger toothbrushes. The multi-functional 3-piece scraper set has various cleaning ends allowing versatility. The different dog toothbrushes polish your pet’s tooth after scraping accumulated tartar. Thus, giving all-around dental care to prevent oral diseases of your pooch.

To top it all, this set provides quality at an affordable cost. However, this dental set doesn’t include a dental mirror. Many dog owners would have found it useful. It also doesn’t have a carrying case to store these tools. This can be inconvenient, especially since there are seven pieces. Like any stainless steel dental scraper, these tools may pose a risk of mouth injury if improperly used.  

Pros

  • 3-piece stainless steel scrapers plus dog toothbrushes in a set
  • Varying ends of the scraper allow versatility when cleaning   
  • Provides all-around cleaning at an affordable price

Cons

  • Doesn’t include a dental mirror
  • No carrying case to store 7 dental tools
  • Improper use may cause gum or mouth injury

8. Dog Plaque Remover for Teeth

Scared of manually scraping or cleaning your furry pal’s teeth? Some dog owners prefer to spend a lot at the vet for dental cleaning because of this fear. The Dog Plaque Remover for Teeth, Pet Ultrasonic Toothbrush is the answer to your worries! This innovative product uses ultrasonic technology to effectively remove plaque and tartar. This gives your pet a clean set of teeth and fresh breath. The ultrasonic toothbrush boasts 5 cleaning modes. This allows you to choose from soft to strong modes from different dog breeds or ages. 

Aside from this modern dental device, it also comes with basic dental cleaning tools. This includes a dental mirror, tweezers, and a scraper kit. However, some dog owners shared that setting up the device the first time can be quite tricky. Also, this ultrasonic toothbrush creates a high pitch sound when in use and it may scare anxious dogs. Because this device offers convenience, it is on the pricey side.

Pros

  • An innovative toothbrush that uses ultrasonic technology to clean dog’s teeth
  • Comes in varying modes to adapt to different breeds or ages 
  • Includes basic tools like scrapers, a dental mirror, and tweezers

Cons

  • First-time use may be challenging and instructions may be confusing
  • Creates a high pitch sound that may scare anxious dogs
  • Costly compared to normal dental care sets

9. ofikpaloe 7Pcs-Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit, Electric Dog Tartar Remover

Level up your pet’s dental hygiene by getting the 7Pcs-Dog Teeth Cleaning Kit, Electric Dog Tartar Remover. This versatile ultrasonic pet toothbrush is suitable for any breed, including your feline friends. Aside from the convenient ultrasonic toothbrush, the set also includes a finger toothbrush, a dental mirror, different cleaning heads, and a normal dog toothbrush. Powered by 5 different modes, you can choose the intensity that is suitable for your pet. 

You can charge the device through a USB charger or power bank. Since it includes other dental care tools, you can also manually clean hard-to-reach parts of your dog’s mouth. However, because it’s electric, the vibration creates a high-pitched sound that may freak dogs out. The cleaning heads also tend to get loose over time due to constant vibration when in use. 

Pros

  • Electric-powered ultrasonic dog toothbrush for convenient brushing
  • Includes other basic dental tools like a dental mirror, and toothbrushes 
  • Has 5 different modes for dogs of various breeds and ages

Cons

  • The vibration creates a high-pitched noise that some dogs hate
  • The cleaning heads tend to get loose due to vibration
  • More expensive than manual tools
dog dental scalers
These tools are costly but are worth investing in.

What is Tooth Scaling

Tooth scaling involves removing plaque from the teeth with a surgical instrument. In a professional dental scaling, a vet will use special tools to scrape the plaque away from the teeth.

A vet will remove plaque both above and below the gum line, making sure to clean all the way to the bottom of the gum pocket. After this, a vet begins root planing. This involves smoothing out the tooth roots to help the gum reattach to the tooth.

Tooth Scaling At Home

Dental scaling at home is not usually recommended for people with no experience or with dogs who will not stay still for such a procedure. The use of any instrument on the tooth enamel can cause tiny scratches, which eventually damage the tooth surface. Because of this, a professional veterinary dentist will always polish the teeth after removing plaque with dental instruments. In-between dental cleanings, however, some owners will use a tooth scraper to remove plaque until their next vet visit, where the teeth will be polished again.

Is it Safe to Do It

Generally speaking, it’s always best for your vet to carry out any dental procedures that go beyond simple tooth brushing on your dog. If your dog already has gingivitis or periodontitis, any dental work could be extremely painful for them. Because of this, your vet may need to put your pet under a general anesthetic to get to the painful areas of your dog’s mouth. Tooth scaling at home can also put your pup at risk of gum injuries and broken teeth, especially if you have no experience in dental cleaning yet. Some tooth cleaners may be very sharp, which is great for removing plaque, but potentially dangerous for your dog. This is especially a problem if your dog is unlikely to stay still for cleaning. For dogs who are calm and allow you to handle their mouths, dental scaling may be less risky.

What to Consider When Buying a Dog Tooth Scaler 

Even with the help of the list, we shared, finding the right dog tooth scaler for your pooch can still be a struggle. So, aside from our best picks, we also included the points to consider when buying a tooth scaler for your pet. 

Quality

When purchasing anything for your pet, it’s good to check the quality. Quality products last long because they pass certain standards. Don’t forget to check the company too. Companies that have been around for years most likely offer good-quality materials. That is why consumers tend to come back and purchase from them again. It also helps to read honest reviews from those who tried the product. 

Efficiency

Tooth brushing may seem an easy task. But, if you have to do them in dogs, it can be a totally different story. Some dogs are cooperative during the teeth cleaning session, while others are not. So, it helps if you check how efficient the product is. Consider your skills and your dog’s reaction to his dental routine. If he moves a lot, then manual scraping might be a challenge. An electric toothbrush may do the job better. But then again, situations can vary. 

Material

With the numerous dental tools for dogs, materials can also vary. Most dog teeth scrapers are made of stainless steel. However, there are other tools that are made of silicone or normal plastic. Checking the materials of dental kits ensures that you are not using any toxic tools on your dog. 

Durability

We all want value for our money. So, to get a good return or investment on oral care kits, make sure to get durable ones. Flimsy tools may break easily, especially if your dogs move a lot. Read reviews of other dog owners to get insights about the sturdiness of the product. 

Cost

Lastly, consider the budget you are working with. If you have the dollars to spend, then choose convenience and get the electric ones. But if you are working on a tight budget, the manual yet quality dental tools will do the job as well. At the end of the day, what matters is that your pet gets healthy oral care.

what a dental scaler is
Just like human teeth, dog’s teeth need to be cleaned and maintained.

Dog Tooth Scalers: FAQ

Have any more questions or concerns about the best dog tooth scalers? Feel free to refer to our Frequently Asked Questions section for more details. If in doubt about your dog’s dental health, always ask your vet for advice!

Is teeth scaling painful for dogs?

Tooth scaling involves scraping the plaque from the teeth, which can be uncomfortable or painful for your dog if they have gingivitis. It can also be painful if you scrape too hard or accidentally injure the gums. Because of this, it’s always best for a vet to carry out a thorough dental cleaning under general anesthesia.

Can I administer anesthesia at home or a similar substance to numb my dog?

You cannot administer a medical-grade anesthetic at home to carry out a dental cleaning. Dental problems in dogs can be extremely painful. As well as this, dogs tend to hide their pain well, and there is no way to accurately know if your dog is “numb” enough or not to start cleaning, especially when using “natural” anesthetics. If you are worried about hurting your dog by cleaning its teeth, do not attempt to carry out the procedure by yourself. Always ask your vet for advice, or bring your dog to the vet for professional cleaning for your dog’s safety and wellbeing.

What are the benefits of scaling?

Dental scaling comes with a lot of benefits! A thorough dental scaling by your vet can help to prevent tooth loss, remove plaque, and reduce problems with any gum pockets that can lead to tooth decay. In the long run, this reduces pain for your dog and reduces the risk of needing medical procedures.

How do I clean the scraper?

The best dog tooth scalers for dogs are made with stainless steel, which is easy to clean. You can sterilize a stainless steel scraper using isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol), boiling water, or pressurized steam. Note that using boiling water is not as effective as other methods and does not provide 100% sterilization.

What are other ways to scale or scrape my dog’s teeth?

There are plenty of ways to scrape your dog’s teeth without using tools, but they are less effective. First and foremost, it’s best to feed your dog a high-quality diet that encourages your dog to chew. Sensory dog toys and dental sticks are also great for providing some abrasive action that your pup can do for themselves. Overall, though, dental sticks and chew toys are not enough to thoroughly scrape your dog’s teeth. It’s best to take your pup to the vet for regular check-ups!

Dog dental care is often overlooked, leading to high rates of dog periodontitis. Fortunately, there are plenty of dog toothbrushes, dog toothpaste, and veterinary dentists that can help to keep your pet’s teeth clean. With enough experience, a steady hand, and a calm dog, some of the best dog tooth scalers might just be a welcome addition to your dog’s dental care regime.

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