Shih Tzus can be prone to dental issues, so we add a dental supplement to his water. The rescue vet removed some of his teeth (not sure which ones - the record doesn't say) and we will get regular dental cleanings done (with or without anesthesia). His regular grooming's include teeth brushing. What else can we do and how often should we get his teeth professionally cleaned.

Cornbread is lucky to have such a proactive family — Shih Tzus really are one of the breeds where dental care makes a huge difference in overall health and quality of life. It sounds like you're already doing a lot of the right things!

What you're already doing well:
- Water additive dental supplement ✓
- Regular tooth brushing ✓
- Planning for professional cleanings ✓

Additional things that can help at home:

• Dental chews or treats designed to reduce plaque buildup can be a helpful addition. Look for products that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal — that means they've been independently tested and shown to actually work, not just marketed as dental products.
• Dental wipes are a great backup on days when Cornbread isn't cooperating with the toothbrush. They won't replace brushing but are better than nothing.
• Chew toys made from rubber or nylon (appropriately sized for a small dog) can help scrub teeth mechanically as he chews. Avoid anything harder than his teeth — a good rule of thumb is that if you can't press your thumbnail into it, it's probably too hard.
• Diet can play a role too. Some dogs benefit from a dental-formula dry kibble, though this is worth discussing with your vet given Cornbread's history of tooth extractions and any chewing limitations that might create.

On professional cleaning frequency:

This is genuinely something your vet is best positioned to answer for Cornbread specifically, because the right interval depends on how quickly his tartar builds up, how many teeth he has remaining, and how effective his at-home routine is. That said, as general information, many small breeds with known dental issues are seen every 6 to 12 months for professional cleanings. Some dogs with more aggressive buildup need it closer to every 6 months; others with excellent home care can stretch to annually. After his first cleaning with his current vet, they'll be able to give you a much more personalized recommendation.

One thing worth mentioning: since you don't have a full record of which teeth were removed, it's a good idea to make sure his current vet does a thorough oral exam at his next visit so they have a complete picture of his mouth going forward.

When to see your vet: Schedule a dental check-in soon if you haven't already established care with a vet who knows his mouth. In the meantime, watch for: bad breath that seems worse than usual, pawing at his mouth, dropping food while eating, drooling more than normal, swollen or red gums, or any reluctance to chew. Any of those signs warrant a vet visit promptly — don't wait for a scheduled cleaning.