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Is it normal for dog food to get stuck after a dental cleaning?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 7 years and 5 months old | 53.5 lbs

My dog seems to keep getting little pieces of chewed food stuck in the back of his mouth kind of right where his jaw would open (like behind teeth). Seems to be on one side more than the other. He doesn’t seem to notice the food is stuck there. I only saw b/c some of it was in his water bowl in saliva after he drank. Is it normal for food today ometimes get stuck or warrant a vet visit? He just had a full dental cleaning 3 weeks ago. (Sorry this is sort of repeat wanted to add info)

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on April 18th, 2020

Don't apologize for posting again! I am glad to help you, and the additional information is great. Given that Timmy did have a dental cleaning three weeks ago, then I suspect that this is more likely normal and it can happen with dogs. Food can get stuck, and I would rule out a dental problem since he's had a cleaning so recently. I hope this helps!

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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