Why Dental Health Matters for Dogs (and How to Keep It in Check)0

ByGavin Levenstein

Note: Educational content only. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice.

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Start here: (3 quick wins)

1) Brush their teeth most days with a dog toothbrush + enzymatic toothpaste. • Shop: Dog toothbrush and toothpaste kit (see Dental Care) 2) Add a VOHC-approved dental chew once daily for plaque control. • Shop: VOHC dental chews for your dog’s size 3) Book an annual vet dental exam; sooner if there’s bad breath, bleeding gums, or pain. • Ask about a professional cleaning and dental X-rays when indicated

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What causes plaque and tartar in dogs

Dogs have 42 adult teeth built for cutting, tearing, and grinding. Their saliva is more alkaline than ours, so true cavities are less common—but plaque and tartar are not.

  • Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria, saliva, and food particles that forms after meals.
  • Within 24–72 hours, plaque can harden into tartar (calculus), especially along the gumline.
  • Once tartar forms, brushing alone can’t remove it—your vet needs to scale it off safely.

Unchecked tartar leads to inflamed gums, infection, pain, and over time, irreversible tooth and bone loss.

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Stages of periodontal disease

Periodontal disease affects over 80% of dogs by age three. It progresses in four stages:

  • Stage 1 (Gingivitis): Red, puffy gums that may bleed. No bone loss yet—fully reversible with care.
  • Stage 2 (Early periodontitis): Tartar buildup and early pocketing; initial bone loss begins.
  • Stage 3 (Moderate periodontitis): Deeper infection, bad breath, visible damage, tooth mobility.
  • Stage 4 (Advanced periodontitis): Severe bone loss, loose or missing teeth, significant pain; bacteria can impact kidneys, heart, and liver.

Early action prevents pain and protects whole-body health.

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Signs your dog may have dental problems

  • Persistent bad breath (not just “doggy” breath)
  • Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
  • Yellow/brown tartar, loose or missing teeth
  • Drooling, pawing at the mouth, or reluctance to chew
  • Eating on one side, dropping food, or changes in mood

See your vet promptly if you notice any of the above.

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At-home dental care that works

1) Daily brushing (gold standard) – Use a dog-specific toothbrush or finger brush with enzymatic dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste. – Aim for daily; 3–4 times a week still helps.

2) Dental diets and kibble – Some veterinary dental diets have a texture that mechanically scrubs teeth. Useful for plaque control alongside brushing.

3) Dental chews (look for VOHC seal) – VOHC-accepted chews are proven to reduce plaque/tartar when used as directed. They complement—don’t replace—brushing.

4) Chew toys for mechanical cleaning – Choose size-appropriate rubber or soft-to-moderate nylon toys. Avoid anything rock-hard that could crack a tooth.

5) Water additives and gels – Some products can help reduce bacterial load. Choose reputable, xylitol-free options. Best used with brushing, not instead of it.

6) Regular veterinary checkups – An annual oral exam (often during wellness visits) catches early disease. Many dogs also need periodic professional cleanings.

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How to brush your dog’s teeth (step-by-step)

1) Set the vibe – Pick a calm time of day. Use treats and praise; keep sessions short and positive.

2) Let them sample the paste – Offer a pea-sized amount of enzymatic dog toothpaste to lick off your finger.

3) Introduce the brush – Start with a finger brush or a soft pet toothbrush. Lift the lip gently.

4) Focus the gumline – Use small circular motions where tooth meets gum. Prioritise the outer surfaces of the back teeth (plaque loves molars).

5) Build consistency – Aim for 30–60 seconds per side. Work up gradually over 2–3 weeks.

6) Reward and repeat – Finish with praise, a cuddle, or a VOHC chew. Daily is ideal; consistency beats intensity.

Tip: If your dog refuses a brush, try a textured dental wipe as a bridge step.

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Small breed, senior, and puppy-specific tips

  • Small breed dog dental care

Toy breeds (e.g., Yorkies, Chihuahuas) often develop periodontal disease early due to tooth crowding. Start brushing in puppyhood, keep up with pro cleanings, and avoid overly hard chews.

  • Senior dog dental care

Older dogs can have hidden issues (root exposure, resorptive lesions, oral tumors). Keep up with exams; ask your vet about dental X-rays and pain management. Softer chews and gentle brushing often work best.

  • Puppy dental care vs teething

Puppies teethe around 3–7 months. Use puppy-safe, softer chews and begin toothpaste “tasting” early so brushing becomes normal. See also: Puppy teething help in our How Do I… guide.

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When to see a vet, costs, and recovery

  • When does my dog need a dental cleaning?

Annually for most adults; more often for small breeds, seniors, or dogs with signs of disease. Your vet will advise based on an oral exam and X-rays.

  • What cleanings involve (under anesthesia)

Full-mouth exam, dental radiographs, ultrasonic scaling above and below the gumline, polish, and charting. Extractions are performed if teeth are unsalvageable.

  • Why anesthesia-free cleanings are risky

They can’t clean below the gumline or address painful disease, and they may mask problems. Discuss the anesthesia plan and monitoring with your vet.

  • Cost (indicative only; varies by region, size, and findings)

Budget for exam, pre-anesthetic bloodwork, anesthesia, scaling/polish, and dental X-rays. Extractions add time and cost. Ask your clinic for a tailored estimate before the procedure.

  • Recovery time

Most dogs go home the same day. Expect drowsiness for 12–24 hours. If extractions were needed, feed soft food as advised and give prescribed pain meds.

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Chew materials: what’s safe and what to skip

  • Rubber (durable, slightly compressible): Often safest when size-appropriate.
  • Nylon (moderate hardness): Choose softer formulations; discard if sharp edges or heavy wear appear.
  • VOHC dental chews: Designed to reduce plaque/tartar; follow size and feeding guidelines.
  • Rawhide: Can be gulped; choose digestible alternatives if your dog is a strong chewer. Supervise closely.
  • Bones and antlers: Frequently crack teeth and can cause GI injury. We do not recommend them for dental care.

General rule: If you wouldn’t want it to hit your own kneecap, it’s probably too hard for dog teeth.

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FAQs: Dog dental care

  • How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Daily is ideal; at least 3–4 times per week for meaningful plaque control.

  • How often should dogs have their teeth cleaned by a vet?

Most adult dogs benefit from an annual dental assessment, with cleanings as recommended. Small breeds and seniors may need them more often.

  • Can I use human toothpaste on my dog?

No. Human toothpaste can contain xylitol and fluorides that are dangerous for dogs. Use dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste.

  • What are VOHC-approved dental products?

Products that meet the Veterinary Oral Health Council standard for reducing plaque and/or tartar. Look for the VOHC seal on the packaging.

  • Are water additives effective for dog dental health?

Some can help when used with brushing and chews. They’re not a replacement for mechanical cleaning. Choose reputable, xylitol-free products.

  • My dog hates brushing—what are the best alternatives?

Try dental wipes, VOHC chews, and dental diets while you re-condition brushing with tiny, positive sessions. Ask your vet for a tailored plan.

  • Why does my dog have bad breath but clean-looking teeth?

Odor can come from below the gumline, the GI tract, or systemic illness. Schedule a vet exam—dental X-rays may be needed.

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A little consistency goes a long way. With simple daily habits and the right tools, you’ll keep your dog’s mouth comfortable, their breath sweeter, and their whole body healthier.

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