Cleaning Dogs’ Teeth and Dental Care Tips

Believe it or not, taking care of your dog's teeth is as important as looking after your own. Just like us, our dogs experience plaque build-up on their teeth. Plaque is a sticky layer on the teeth left by bacteria in the mouth. Plaque can be removed through brushing. However, if left alone, plaque becomes calcified and hardens into tartar. This is a hard yellowish-brown substance also known as calculus. All of this leads to inflamed gums (known as gingivitis), which is the onset of gum disease.

Gum disease can become the root cause of serious issues as your dog ages. It can cause teeth to fall out and lead to bacterial infection, which can affect vital organs if bacteria gets into the bloodstream. Taking care of your dog's teeth will not only lead to a healthier pet, but also help you avoid expensive dental bills. Fortunately, prevention and regular maintenance of your dog’s teeth are a fairly easy albeit vital habit to build. Here are our tips for building healthy routines and how to spot the potential signs of dental problems.

Tip 1. Tell-tale signs

Your vet will be able to spot any problems during your dog's annual check-up, but in the interim, here are some signs you should look out for:

• Yellow and brown tartar deposits on the teeth, usually near the gum line
• Difficulty eating or looking like they want to eat but walking away
• Swollen and bleeding gums
• Bad breath

Remember, dogs can have bad breath for a variety of health reasons, so don't dismiss a foul smell as plain old doggy breath. As the gateway to your pet’s stomach, it’s important you keep track of your dog’s dental and gum health to avoid dental disease or issues and spot any discomfort before it progresses.

Tip 2. Start brushing your dog’s teeth

Just as you take care of your own teeth, regular brushing, a good diet and regular check-ups help keep your dog’s teeth healthy. However, when you start brushing your dog’s teeth, it’s important that they don’t already have gum disease or teeth that need removing. Before embarking on any prevention protocol, get your dog’s teeth checked by your vet. They may need to have them professionally cleaned under anaesthetic. Once their gums are back in good condition, free of infection, inflammation or pain, then you can start brushing.

Use toothpastes specifically designed for pets. Human toothpastes are designed to foam up and be spat out. They are also often flavours that most animals don’t like. Use a toothpaste formulated for dogs instead. It will help your dog to accept the brushing and avoid an upset stomach. What about the toothbrush? Depending on the size of your dog's teeth and mouth, you may be able to use a regular toothbrush. There are also specially designed brushes that fit on your finger to make brushing easier.

However, you can always ask your vet for their advice. They may be able to give you a demonstration.

Tip 3. A regular cleaning routine

Brushing is easier if you begin while they are still young, but a dog of any age will eventually get used to it with patience and kindness. You should brush your dog's teeth at least once a week, but once a day is best.

Always start with plenty of reassurance to help calm them down. Let them have a tiny taste of the toothpaste, and then begin to gently brush their teeth in a massage-like motion. This allows them to get used to the sensation. It’s usually best to start with the molars at the back of the mouth, as the incisors at the front tend to be more sensitive.

When you brush, pay particular attention to where the tooth meets the gum. Your dog might not like it at first, but be patient, and you'll get there in the end.

Tip 4. Brushing alternatives

There are specially formulated dry dog foods and treats that can reduce tartar and avoid the onset of gum disease. These foods come in a larger kibble size, so your dog has to chew them and not just swallow them. They also have specially-aligned fibres that are proven to scrape the teeth clean and help prevent dental issues. Remember, never change your dog’s food without consulting your vet, and always introduce new food gradually over 5-7 days to avoid stomach upsets. The same as with brushing, don’t start these foods without your vet checking your dog’s teeth first. If they have inflamed or painful teeth and gums already, you could make it worse and put them off the food for good.

Remember, keeping your dog's teeth in good condition is essential for their overall health. 

Reviewed by Dr. Hein Meyer, DVM, PhD, Dipl-ECVIM-CA and Dr. Emma Milne BVSc FRCVS.