How to Brush a Dog’s Teeth

When was the last time you brushed your dog’s teeth? If your answer is “rarely” or “never,” it’s time to brush up on your dog’s dental care routine. Taking care of your pup’s teeth is an essential part of their overall well-being. Regular brushing, paired with at-home checks and and professional cleanings as advised by your veterinarian, can help keep your dog’s smile bright and healthy while helping prevent serious issues like periodontal disease.

What Is Periodontal Disease in Dogs?

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, most dogs show signs of periodontal disease by the time they’re just three years old. Periodontal disease is an infection caused by plaque buildup, which hardens into tartar. Left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss, jawbone damage, and even more severe health problems, as the infection can spread to vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Signs of periodontal disease include:

• Persistent bad breath
• Inflamed or bleeding gums
• Loose or missing teeth
• Difficulty chewing or loss of appetite
• Sensitivity around the mouth

While periodontal disease isn’t reversible, it is preventable with the right dental care routine. By taking proactive steps to care for your dog’s teeth, you can protect them from the pain and complications associated with periodontal disease. Early prevention can not only save your dog from discomfort but can also help save you from costly treatments down the road.

Doggy Dental 101

A regular dental care routine is essential for your dog’s overall health and happiness. Issues like plaque buildup and periodontal disease don’t stop at the mouth—they can cause pain and infections and even lead to more serious health complications if not addressed. In addition to at-home care, dogs should have their teeth and gums checked during routine vet visits. As your dog enters their senior years, semi-annual dental checkups become even more important to catch potential issues early.

1. Do I really need to brush my dog’s teeth?

Yes! You should brush your dog’s teeth on a regular basis. Brushing their teeth is one of the simplest ways to help prevent dental issues like plaque buildup and periodontal disease. Here are some tips to get you started:

• Pick the Right Brush: Choose a toothbrush designed for dogs, such as soft-bristled brushes, finger brushes for easy handling, or angled brushes to reach tricky spots.
• Choose Dog-Friendly Toothpaste: Use toothpaste specifically made for dogs in flavors like chicken or peanut butter. Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients harmful to dogs.
• Establish a Routine: Aim to brush your dog’s teeth daily. If that’s not possible, a few times a week can still make a big difference.
• Brush Correctly: Hold the brush at a 45° angle and use small, circular motions to clean along the gum line.
• Work at Your Dog’s Pace: Pay attention to your dog’s body language and reactions. Start slowly, introducing the toothbrush and toothpaste gradually. Use treats to reward them and build positive associations with brushing.
• Practice and Patience: Take your time and work on one area of the mouth at a time. Over time, with practice and consistency, your dog may grow more comfortable with the process.

If brushing is a challenge or you’re unsure how to get started, your veterinarian can provide guidance and tips. Regular brushing may take some getting used to, but it’s key to keeping your dog’s teeth clean, their breath fresh, and their mouth healthy.

2. Perform Weekly Dental Checks

Brushing is important, but regular dental checks are just as essential. Taking a few minutes each week to examine your dog’s mouth can help you catch potential issues before they become serious problems.

Choose a time when your dog is relaxed—after a walk or play session works well. Gently lift their lips to check their teeth and gums. Be patient, and try to keep things calm and low-stress. Look for things like:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Lumps on the gums
• Discolored teeth or tartar buildup
• Persistent bad breath

If you spot any of these signs or anything unusual, like a change in chewing habits or sensitivity around the mouth, it’s time to reach out to your veterinarian. These weekly checks are a simple but effective way to stay on top of your dog’s dental health and keep their smile in great shape.

3. Schedule Professional Cleanings As Advised by Your Veterinarian

Even if you brush regularly, some plaque will still harden into tartar that only a vet can handle. That’s why yearly cleanings are a must—they keep your dog’s teeth in top shape and help prevent bigger problems like periodontal disease. Your vet can tackle what brushing can’t, giving your pup’s mouth the eep clean it needs.

During a professional dental cleaning, your vet will:

• Remove tartar and plaque: Your vet will clean even below the gum line, where harmful buildup tends to hide.
• Examine each tooth: They’ll look for damage, decay, or disease—things you might not notice at home.
• Polish the teeth: Polishing removes tiny scratches, helping to keep plaque from sticking in the future.

Professional cleanings are a key part of keeping your dog healthy. Paired with regular brushing and at-home checks, they help keep your canine’s teeth strong and their mouth in great shape. If you haven’t booked your dog’s annual dental cleaning yet, now’s a great time to give their smile the care it needs.

Why Anesthesia Matters:

Anesthesia is a big part of professional dog dental cleanings, and for good reason. It’s the only way to safely clean below the gum line where plaque and tartar like to hide—places brushing just can’t reach. Without it, your vet wouldn’t be able to fully examine each tooth or spot potential issues that might be lurking out of sight.

Yes, anesthesia comes with some risks, but modern vet care has made it much safer. Your vet will check your dog’s overall health beforehand and keep a close eye on them throughout the procedure. Ultimately, anesthesia doesn’t just ensure a deeper clean—it also keeps the whole process calm and pain-free for your pup.

Chew Toys: Dental Care in Disguise

Chew toys can do more than keep your dog entertained—they’re also a handy tool for reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Chewing helps scrape away debris and stimulates saliva, giving your pup’s teeth a little extra cleaning power.

But not all chew toys are created equal. Hard items like bones or antlers might seem tempting, but they can chip teeth or irritate gums. Instead, look for toys made specifically for dental health—soft but sturdy options that are tough on plaque but gentle on your dog’s mouth.

Toys with textured surfaces or grooves can work wonders for cleaning those tricky spots, and choosing veterinarian-approved options ensures you’re picking something safe and effective. Supervision is also key when offering chew toys to your dog. Even the safest toys can break or wear down over time, posing choking hazards or causing injury if ingested. Keep an eye on your dog during chew sessions and replace toys that show signs of damage.

Chew toys also give your dog a satisfying way to channel their natural urge to chew, which could save a shoe or two along the way. While they’re not a replacement for regular brushing or professional cleanings, they’re a great addition to your dog’s dental care routine. If you’re unsure which type of toy is best for your dog, your veterinarian can point you in the right direction.

The Cost of Ignoring Canine Dental Health

Skipping your dog’s dental care might seem harmless, but it can lead to serious consequences over time. Without regular brushing or professional cleanings, plaque builds up and hardens into tartar, setting the stage for periodontal disease. This common condition can cause pain, inflamed gums, and even tooth loss.

But the risks don’t stop there. Bacteria from untreated dental issues can enter your dog’s bloodstream, potentially affecting vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and liver. These complications not only impact your dog’s health but can also result in costly treatments.

Final Thoughts: The Key to a Healthy Smile

Caring for your dog’s teeth is about more than just a bright smile—it’s essential for their overall health and well-being. Regular brushing, weekly mouth checks, and annual exams and cleanings can help prevent periodontal disease and other serious dental problems. Taking a little time now to prioritize their dental care can save you from bigger challenges later, ensuring your dog stays happy, healthy, and ready to flash their best grin for years to come.

_{An ASPCA® Pet Health Insurance plan can help you with eligible costs for covered conditions like surgery expenses for accidents and help provide peace of mind that your pet can receive the care they need. Check out our online resources to learn more about your insurance options and get a free quote today. The information presented in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute or substitute for the advice of your veterinarian.}