By age 3, most dogs have some degree of dental disease. Plaque and tartar lead to gum inflammation, tooth loss and pain, and bacteria from the mouth can affect the rest of the body. Good dog dental care at home, plus regular vet cleanings, can prevent much of this. Here’s how.
Quick Answer: Daily toothbrushing with dog toothpaste is the best way to prevent periodontal disease. VOHC-accepted dental chews, diets and water additives can help too. Most dogs also need professional dental cleanings under anesthesia every 1 to 2 years or as your vet recommends.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease is infection and inflammation of the structures that support the teeth.
| Stage | What happens |
|---|---|
| Stage 1: Gingivitis | Red, swollen gums; reversible |
| Stage 2: Early periodontitis | Mild loss of attachment |
| Stage 3: Moderate periodontitis | More bone loss |
| Stage 4: Advanced periodontitis | Severe bone loss, loose teeth |
VCA Animal Hospitals notes that dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs.
Signs of Dental Disease
- Bad breath
- Yellow or brown tartar
- Red or bleeding gums
- Drooling
- Dropping food or chewing on one side
- Pawing at the mouth
- Loose or broken teeth
- Facial swelling
Small breeds and dogs with crowded teeth are especially prone to dental disease.
How to Brush Your Dog’s Teeth
What you’ll need
- Dog toothbrush or finger brush
- Dog toothpaste (never human toothpaste, which can contain xylitol)
Step by step
- Start slowly. Let your dog lick toothpaste from your finger.
- Touch the teeth and gums with your finger for a few days.
- Introduce the brush with toothpaste on it.
- Lift the lip and brush the outer surfaces in small circles, angling toward the gumline.
- Focus on the back teeth (premolars and molars), where tartar builds up.
- Keep sessions short and reward your dog.
- Aim for daily brushing, or at least 3 times a week.
Other Home Care Options
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| VOHC-accepted dental chews | Look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal |
| Dental diets | Kibble designed to scrub teeth |
| Water additives | Some reduce plaque |
| Dental wipes | Easier than brushing for some dogs |
Chews to avoid
- Hard antlers, bones and hooves, which can fracture teeth
- Anything too hard to dent with a fingernail
Professional Dental Cleanings
A full dental cleaning under anesthesia includes:
- Pre-anesthetic bloodwork
- Dental X-rays to look below the gumline
- Scaling and polishing above and below the gumline
- Probing for pockets
- Extractions of diseased teeth if needed
The AVMA explains that anesthesia-free cleanings can’t clean below the gumline, where much disease occurs.
How Often?
Many dogs need professional cleanings every 1 to 2 years. Small breeds may need them more often.
When to Call Your Vet
Book a dental exam if your dog has:
- Bad breath
- Visible tartar
- Red gums
Seek prompt care if your dog has:
- Facial swelling
- A broken tooth
- Bleeding from the mouth
- Stopped eating
See also caring for a senior dog.
A Simple Weekly Dental Routine
| Day | Task |
|---|---|
| Daily | Brush teeth, or at least 3 times a week |
| Daily | Give one VOHC-accepted dental chew if your vet approves |
| Weekly | Lift the lips and check for tartar, red gums or broken teeth |
| Monthly | Check breath and note any changes |
| Yearly | Dental exam with your vet |
Keeping a routine makes dental care a normal part of your dog’s day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bad breath normal in dogs?
No. Persistent bad breath usually signals dental disease.
Is anesthesia safe for dental cleanings?
With pre-anesthetic screening and monitoring, risk is low for most dogs.
Can dental disease affect other organs?
Bacteria from the mouth may affect the heart, kidneys and liver.
Do dogs feel dental pain?
Yes, but many hide it and keep eating.
What’s the best dental chew?
Look for VOHC-accepted products sized for your dog, and supervise chewing.
Do raw bones clean teeth?
They may scrape some tartar, but they can break teeth, cause choking and carry bacteria.
When should I start brushing a puppy’s teeth?
As soon as you bring your puppy home, so brushing becomes a normal routine.
What if my dog won’t let me brush?
Try a finger brush or dental wipes, go slower with training and reward generously. VOHC-accepted chews and diets can help in the meantime.
Do small dogs need more dental care?
Yes. Small breeds often have crowded teeth and develop tartar faster, so they may need more frequent cleanings.
Are dental toys useful?
Textured rubber toys can help some dogs, but they don’t replace brushing.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital.
