Maintaining your dog’s dental health is essential for their overall well‑being. More than 80 % of dogs develop some degree of dental disease by age three. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to painful infections, tooth loss, and can even affect vital organs like the heart and kidneys. Fortunately, most dental issues are preventable with routine care at home and regular checkups.
Why dental care is important
Untreated dental disease causes chronic pain, bad breath, and systemic illness. Bacteria from infected gums enter the bloodstream and may damage internal organs. Preventive dental care not only keeps your dog comfortable but may also extend their life.
At‑home dental care
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Brushing: The gold standard of dental hygiene. Use a soft‑bristled toothbrush and toothpaste formulated for dogs. Start slowly by letting your dog lick a small amount of paste, then gently brush the outer surfaces of the teeth. Over time, work up to brushing daily or at least several times a week.
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Chewing: Chewing on safe items helps mechanically remove plaque. Choose chews designed for dogs (such as rubber toys or dried tendons) and supervise to avoid choking. Avoid cooked bones, antlers, or objects hard enough to break teeth.
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Water additives and dental wipes: Products approved by veterinary dental organizations can reduce plaque when used as directed. These should supplement, not replace, brushing and chewing.
Professional care
Even with good home care, most dogs need periodic professional cleanings. Veterinarians perform dental exams during checkups and may recommend cleaning under anesthesia if there is significant tartar, gingivitis, or tooth decay. Cleanings allow the vet to scale under the gumline, polish the teeth, and take x‑rays to assess root health.
Recognizing problems
Watch for signs such as bad breath, yellow or brown buildup, red or bleeding gums, pawing at the mouth, dropping food, or reluctance to chew. These symptoms warrant a veterinary visit to prevent pain and further complications.
Diet and overall health
A balanced diet supports oral health. Special dental diets have kibble that helps clean teeth, but no dry food replaces brushing. Fresh water is essential; some dogs benefit from rinses or additives that slow plaque. Overall nutrition affects the immune system and the body’s ability to fight infection.
Brushing technique step‑by‑step
Begin by choosing a flavour of dog toothpaste your dog likes, and let them lick it off your finger. Gently lift their lip and use a circular motion on the outside surfaces of the teeth. Focus initially on the canines and back molars where plaque builds up. Gradually increase the time and number of teeth brushed as your dog becomes comfortable. Never use human toothpaste.
Dental procedures and safety
During professional cleanings, veterinarians often take dental x‑rays to look for root problems below the gumline. These procedures require anesthesia for thorough scaling and to avoid pain. While anesthesia carries risks, the incidence of serious complications is low when performed by trained professionals. Discuss pre‑anesthetic bloodwork and monitoring with your vet to minimize risks. You can find detailed guidelines on pet dental care from the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Further reading and resources
The Veterinary Oral Health Council lists products proven to reduce plaque and tartar. Their seal can help you choose effective chews, diets and additives.
Conclusion
Good dental care is an ongoing process. By combining at‑home brushing, safe chewing, periodic professional cleanings, and a healthy diet, you can help your dog maintain a clean mouth, avoid painful disease, and enjoy a longer, healthier life.