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Image courtesy Dr. Jan Bellows, DVM, DAVDC

Like people, dogs and cats require regular dental care to maintain their health. Without it, they can develop painful dental problems, lose teeth, or even suffer from infections that can spread to their heart, liver, or kidneys. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that over 80% of dogs and more than 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age three. What makes this so serious is that dental disease often develops without noticeable symptoms. Many pets don’t show obvious signs of pain, so by the time an owner notices something is wrong, the condition may already be advanced. That’s why it’s so important to prevent dental problems before they start or catch them early.

Dental disease begins with a sticky, invisible film called plaque that forms on your pet’s teeth just hours after eating. Plaque is made of food particles, bacteria, and saliva. If it isn’t removed regularly, it hardens into tartar, especially near the gumline. This buildup causes the gums to become red and swollen—a condition called gingivitis—and can eventually damage the bone and tissue that support the teeth. Some pets, especially small dogs and flat-faced breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs, are more prone to developing dental problems quickly due to the unique shape and spacing of their teeth.

Brushing at Home

Brushing your pet’s teeth is the best way to prevent dental disease. Brushing helps remove plaque and keep the gums healthy. It’s best to brush and wipe your pet’s teeth daily, but even brushing every other day can help. Most pets won’t accept toothbrushing right away, so it’s essential to take things slowly. Start by getting your pet used to having their mouth touched with your finger. Then, use a soft cloth or gauze, and finally, move on to a pet toothbrush. Always use toothpaste specifically made for pets—never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic. Pet toothpaste comes in tasty flavors, such as poultry or malt, which many pets enjoy. It may take several weeks or even months to establish a brushing routine that your pet accepts, but with patience and positive reinforcement, it can become a regular part of your pet’s daily life.

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Besides brushing, many products can help care for your pet’s teeth at home. The Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approves products that have been shown to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. These include dental chews, treats, special diets, oral sprays, and water additives. Dental diets are often made with larger, textured kibble that scrapes the teeth as your pet chews. Some of these foods also contain ingredients that help prevent tartar from forming. While these products are helpful, none of them work as well as brushing. Still, they can be great additions to your pet’s daily dental routine—make sure to look for the VOHC seal when choosing products.

Professional Cleanings

Even with excellent home care, pets still need regular professional cleanings done by a veterinarian. These cleanings must be performed under general anesthesia. Anesthesia allows the vet to thoroughly examine your pet’s mouth, clean above and below the gumline, take X-rays, and safely remove any diseased teeth if necessary. Cleanings that don’t use anesthesia may sound appealing, but they only remove surface tartar and can cause pain or injury. Worse, they miss problems hiding under the gums. Dental X-rays are essential because more than half of each tooth is below the gumline, where you can’t see damage with the naked eye. Issues such as root infections, broken roots, and bone loss can only be detected with X-rays.

The frequency of your pet's dental cleanings depends on several factors, including age, breed, overall health, and the level of at-home dental care. Small dogs and flat-faced breeds typically require cleaning once or twice a year. Larger dogs with healthy mouths may only need a cleaning every 18 to 24 months. Cats, especially those with gum disease or tooth resorption, may require more frequent cleanings and checkups. Some pet owners worry about anesthesia, but today’s veterinary hospitals use safe, modern techniques. Before the procedure, pets receive blood tests and exams. During the cleaning process, they are administered fluids through an IV, closely monitored with specialized equipment, and kept warm and comfortable. In healthy pets, the risk from anesthesia is very low, especially when a trained veterinary team does the procedure.

Sometimes pets need more than just a cleaning. They might have a fractured tooth, crowded teeth that rub the gums, or other painful dental issues. Broken teeth can expose the inner pulp and cause serious infections. These teeth may need to be removed or treated with a root canal. Some pets have misaligned teeth that can cause injuries inside the mouth. In such cases, a veterinary dentist can address the issue using braces, selective extractions, or other specialized procedures. Veterinary dentists are specially trained to handle complex dental issues using specialized tools, including X-rays, surgical instruments, and advanced techniques.

Continued Care

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Veterinary dental care continues to evolve, with new products and treatments being introduced regularly. Some newer options include dental gels, probiotics, and even laser treatments to aid in gum healing after surgery. One exciting development is the use of hyaluronic acid, which helps reduce inflammation and promote healing in pets with moderate dental disease. While these treatments are still becoming more common, they demonstrate the significant advancements in veterinary dentistry.

Education is one of the most crucial aspects of maintaining your pet’s oral health. As a pet owner, you play the most significant role in your animal’s dental care. Your veterinarian is your partner in this process. At your pet’s regular checkups, ask your vet to look at their teeth, show you how to brush or wipe correctly, and help you choose the right dental products. Some clinics use dental report cards, pictures, or X-rays to help you understand what’s going on in your pet’s mouth. After a dental procedure, be sure to follow all home care instructions and attend follow-up visits as needed.

Ultimately, the best dental care is preventive. By brushing your pet’s teeth every day, using helpful dental products, and scheduling professional cleanings when needed, you can help your pet live a longer, healthier life. Ignoring dental problems can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even more serious health issues. But with a little time and effort, you can make a big difference in your pet’s overall well-being. Good dental care is not a luxury—it’s an integral part of caring for your furry family member.