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					Originally Posted by Cooper2010  Thanks.  Now I wonder why that was never done before and if it was done properly.  Could that be the reason that the tarter and bad breath returned so quickly?  Less than 6 months later they told me it should be done again.  BTW, the cost for the cleaning at that particular office was $85.  The fee at the new vet is $175 excluding any extractions that my happen. | 
 
  The antibiotics are given to prevent systemic infections that could take place during the procedure--it shouldn't have anything to do with how quickly tartar and bad breath returns.  Here is some information from 
Teeth Cleaning :  
ANTIBIOTICS: Antibiotics are often given before, and then  after the dental cleaning (and possible extractions) to eliminate any bacteria  present and avoid spreading bacteria into the blood during dental cleaning. In  many severe infections, antibiotics will be prescribed for several days and then  an appointment is scheduled for a recheck. Be SURE to continue antibiotics until  instructed not to do so! Use the entire contents of any prescribed medications  before stopping. Oral medications are often prescribed, depending upon the  severity of infection. This is not routinely needed in human dentistry because  we don’t let our teeth get that bad before seeking professional help.