Studies show that dental disease is a leading (and possibly the leading) cause of ill health in dogs. Just like us, our canine companions need their teeth to be cared for. Unlike us, they can’t do it for themselves.
The picture above shows a young dog with healthy teeth and gums. The teeth are white, the gums pink. There's just a small amount of brown-ish dental tartar near the gum line on the canine tooth.
In contrast, the picture below shows an older dog with poor dental health. The teeth are discoloured by a significant build up of dental tartar. As a consequence the gums are red and inflamed.
Hopefully these photos are enough to convince you that dental care is essential to your pet's health. Your dog's dental health doesn't have to deteriorate as they get older.
Below we discuss in more detail why you should clean your dogs teeth before going on to offer advice on how best to do this. We finish up with FAQs.
Below are six reasons why you should look after your dogs dental health.
1. Eliminating bad breath. Cleaning your dog's teeth regularly will make their breath fresher.
2. Preventing gum disease and tooth decay. Just like us, dogs can develop diseases such as gingivitis or inflammation of the gums. Plaque forms when bacteria interact with food. Without regular cleaning, this plaque can build up on their teeth and harden into difficult to remove tartar. Over time, this can trap bacteria and lead to painful gum infections and tooth decay. By simply cleaning your dog's teeth, you're taking a major step in preventing these issues.
3. Saving money on vet bills. Prevention is both better and cheaper than cure. Dental problems can lead to expensive veterinary treatment. Even a simple scale and polish requires an anaesthetic and can cost hundreds of pounds. Extractions are even more expensive. Regular dental cleaning can decrease the chance of such problems, saving you from pricey vet bills.
4. Boosting overall health and longevity. Dental disease can also impact your dog’s overall health. Bacteria from infections in their mouth can spread, affecting vital organs like their heart and kidneys. By ensuring your dog has clean teeth, you're not only safeguarding their dental health but also contributing to their overall well-being.
5. Detecting dental issues early. Regularly checking and cleaning your dog's teeth allows you to keep an eye out for any potential problems. You'll be better placed to notice things like broken teeth, oral tumours, or other abnormalities early on. Early detection often means easier, cheaper and more effective treatment.
6. Enhancing your bond with your dog. Cleaning your dog's teeth can be a bonding experience. Yes, really! It's an activity that requires trust, and with gentle, consistent practice, it can be a calm and even enjoyable routine for you and your pet. The more positive experiences you share, the stronger your bond will become.
Just like for humans, teeth brushing is the gold standard for doggy dental care. Below we also consider the other methods that can help to keep their teeth in tip top shape, particularly if used in conjunction with brushing.
1. Regular teeth brushing: the gold standard. Regular teeth brushing is unbeatable when it comes to maintaining your dog's dental health. It helps to remove plaque, ensuring fresher breath and fewer dental issues. It’s also the cheapest option. The keys to success are starting slowly to build tolerance and being consistent. More details on how to brush your dog’s teeth can be found below. Note that you must use a dog-specific toothpaste.
2. Dental chews and toys: the fun route. Dental chews and toys are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar build-up as your dog chews and are a great supplementary option to brushing.
3. Dental diets: food designed to improve dental health. Some dog foods are specially formulated to improve dental health. They're made to reduce plaque and tartar formation, and the act of chewing them can also give a minor cleaning effect. Always consult with your Vet before making dietary changes.
4. Dental sprays and gels: the quick and easy approach. For those on-the-go moments or for dogs who are resistant to brushing, dental sprays and gels can be a good alternative. They help to reduce bacteria in the mouth, leading to fresher breath. Always ensure they're dog safe.
5. Regular Vet check-ups: the safety net. Finally, regular vet visits will ensure your dog's mouth is in good shape and will catch any potential issues before they become major problems.
In a nutshell, while teeth brushing remains the gold standard (and is the cheapest method), combining it with other dental health options can create a comprehensive care routine. Your dog's sparkling smile will thank you.
Brushing your dog’s teeth is the gold standard doggy dental care routine. A few simple steps can help make the process easy.
Getting started
The key to successful brushing is to start very slowly. You always want to work within the confines of what your dog is comfortable with to avoid building up any resistance. If they do become resistant to brushing, it will only make things harder in the long run.
You don’t even need to start by brushing – it’s enough just to get your dog familiar with their mouth being touched by lifting their lips. When they’re comfortable with this, you can progress to touching their teeth and gums.
When they tolerate this, it’s time to get them used to the toothbrush and toothpaste. You can still do this without brushing their teeth!
Let them taste the toothpaste and sniff the toothbrush. Toothbrushes designed for dogs are fantastic (they’re soft and fit their mouths) but if your dog is still a little wary, you can start with a finger brush. They're gentle, fit over your fingertip, and can be easier for both you and your pet to get used to.
Then move on to brushing their easily accessible front teeth. A few seconds is enough at first – remember the aim is acceptance. You can increase the time gradually later. Once they’re comfortable with their front teeth being brushed, you can move onto their harder to access back teeth. Ultimately, it’s great if you can also brush the inner surfaces of their teeth. However, this is much more invasive, and some dogs will never allow it.
The process could take a while… don’t force it – you’ll only make their resistance worse.
The Ideal Brushing Process
Once your dog is used to having their teeth brushed, start the process by lifting your dog’s lip gently and brushing in a circular motion, focusing on the gum line. Aim to cover all surfaces (if possible) but pay particular attention to the outer ones which often have the most tartar. Ideally you should aim to brush your dog’s teeth for two minutes daily. If this is too much, aim for 2-3 times per week.
Note that you must use dog and never human toothpaste. In addition to other problems, human versions often contain fluoride and xylitol - both of which are highly toxic to dogs. Instead, get a dog-approved toothpaste - they usually come in flavours they love, like chicken or beef.
Safety Tips
Always be gentle. If your dog seems stressed or anxious, pause and try again another time. Never force teeth brushing- the experience should be as calm and positive as possible. Remember, it's a bonding moment.
Be mindful that prolonged resistance may be a sign of discomfort. This could indicate a specific problem like a broken tooth or a more general problem like a sore mouth. You may want to try proceeding more gently. If the problem continues or you have any concerns, please consult your Vet.
Please note that teeth brushing (by definition!) requires your fingers to be near your dog’s teeth and you should always be mindful of your own safety. Never brush the teeth of a dog you don’t trust. Follow your dog’s cues and stop immediately if you see any signs of aggression (growling, snarling, snapping etc).
What if your dog's teeth already have significant tartar build up?
If your dog's teeth already have significant tartar build up, brushing alone might not be enough. Although brushing may stop the situation from deteriorating further, your dog may require a scale and polish to get rid of stubborn deposits. Your Vet can help determine if this is necessary.
In summary, regular teeth brushing can pave the way for a lifetime of healthy smiles for your fur baby. It's an act of love that pays off in wet-nosed, tail-wagging happiness (as well as reduced vet bills).
Q: How often should I brush my dog's teeth?
A: Ideally, you should brush your dog's teeth daily, just like you do your own. However, if that's not feasible, aim for at least 2-3 times a week to maintain good dental health.
Q: What kind of toothpaste should I use for my dog?
A: Always use a toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs. Human toothpaste can contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like fluoride and xylitol. Dog toothpastes often come in flavours that appeal to them, such as poultry or beef.
Q: Can I use a human toothbrush for my dog?
A: While specialized dog tooth brushes are often the best fit, you can use a soft-bristled human toothbrush as an alternative. Ensure it's the right size for your dog's mouth.
Q: Is it too late to start brushing my dog's teeth if they're already an adult?
A: It's never too late to start! Whilst it's beneficial to begin when they're young, introducing an older dog to teeth brushing can still offer significant dental health benefits. Start slowly and be patient, allowing them to get used to the new routine. If your dog already has significant tartar build up, teeth brushing can help to prevent the situation getting worse but they will likely need a scale and polish to remove the existing tartar.
Q: My dog resists teeth brushing. What can I do?
A: Patience is key. Try following the gradual process above which starts by just getting them used to having their mouth touched. Then let your dog taste the toothpaste and get used to the toothbrush. Eventually try brushing a few easily accessible front teeth for a few seconds. Gradually increase the time as they become more comfortable. Later move onto their harder to access back teeth. Rewarding them with praise or treats can also help make it a positive experience. Remember that continued resistance may be a sign of discomfort which could indicate an underlying problem. If you have any concerns, please consult your Vet.
Q: Can dental chews replace teeth brushing?
A: While dental chews can help reduce plaque and tartar, they should not completely replace teeth brushing. Think of them as a supplement to your brushing routine, not a replacement.
Q: What if I notice bleeding while brushing?
A: A small amount of bleeding might occur initially, especially if your dog's gums are inflamed. However, consistent bleeding or severe redness should be a cause for concern, and you should consult your Vet.
Q: My dog already has a lot of tartar. Can brushing still help?
A: While brushing can prevent further build up, existing heavy tartar deposits may require a professional cleaning by a Vet. Once the tartar is removed, regular brushing can help maintain a clean mouth.
Q: Is it safe to brush a puppy's teeth?
A: Yes! Starting early can get your puppy used to the routine, making it easier as they grow older. Use a soft brush and toothpaste designed for puppies.
I hope this helps address the common questions about doggy dental care. Remember, just like us, our furry friends benefit immensely from regular dental hygiene.
