Dog Teeth Cleaning: How to Keep Your Dog's Teeth Healthy

Why Dog Teeth Cleaning is Important

Just like humans, dogs need regular dental care to keep their teeth and gums healthy. Poor oral hygiene in dogs can lead to a build-up of plaque and tartar, which can cause bad breath, gum disease, and even more severe health issues, such as heart or kidney disease. Unfortunately, dental care is often overlooked by dog owners, but with proper attention and routine cleaning, you can keep your dog’s teeth healthy and prevent more serious issues down the road.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of dog teeth cleaning, the best ways to keep your dog’s teeth clean, and tips for maintaining your dog’s overall dental health. A little effort now can go a long way in ensuring your dog’s teeth remain strong and healthy for years to come.

Why Is Dental Health Important for Dogs?

Maintaining your dog’s dental health is about more than just preventing bad breath—though that’s a nice bonus! Poor oral hygiene can lead to several health problems, both in the mouth and throughout your dog’s body. Here are some key reasons why dog dental care is so important:

• Prevention of Gum Disease

• Gum disease (periodontal disease) is one of the most common problems in dogs. It starts with plaque build-up on the teeth, which can lead to inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and eventually to the loss of teeth if not treated.

• Avoiding Pain and Discomfort

• Tooth decay, broken teeth, and gum infections can cause significant pain for dogs, though they often try to hide it. Regular cleaning helps prevent these painful conditions.

• Preventing Tooth Loss

• Advanced periodontal disease can damage the tissues that support the teeth, leading to loose or missing teeth. Cleaning your dog’s teeth regularly helps maintain the strength and stability of their teeth.

• Reducing the Risk of Systemic Diseases

• Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream and affect your dog’s heart, liver, and kidneys. Good oral hygiene reduces the risk of these potentially life-threatening infections.

• Maintaining Good Breath

• Bad breath (halitosis) is often one of the first signs of dental issues. Regular cleaning helps keep your dog’s breath fresh and pleasant.

How Often Should You Clean Your Dog’s Teeth?

Ideally, you should clean your dog’s teeth daily, but even brushing a few times a week can make a significant difference in maintaining their dental health. In addition to home care, it’s recommended to have your vet perform a professional cleaning at least once a year, depending on your dog’s age, breed, and dental condition.

Dogs that are prone to dental problems, such as smaller breeds like Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Yorkies, may need more frequent professional cleanings. Speak to your vet about the best schedule for your dog.

How to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth at Home

Cleaning your dog’s teeth at home doesn’t have to be a chore, and with the right tools and techniques, it can be a straightforward part of their routine. Here’s how you can get started:

• Use a Dog-Specific Toothbrush and Toothpaste

• Never use human toothpaste, as it contains ingredients like fluoride that can be toxic to dogs. Instead, purchase a dog-specific toothpaste that’s safe for them to swallow. These are often flavoured to appeal to dogs, like poultry or beef. You’ll also need a dog toothbrush, which has softer bristles and is angled for easier brushing.

• Introduce Brushing Gradually

• If your dog isn’t used to having their teeth brushed, start slowly. Begin by letting them taste the toothpaste and allowing them to get comfortable with the toothbrush. Gradually work your way up to brushing their teeth for a few seconds, and then extend the time as they get used to the process.

• Brush Gently and Thoroughly

• When you’re ready to brush, gently lift your dog’s lip to expose the teeth. Use circular motions to clean the teeth and gums, focusing on the outside of the teeth, where plaque and tartar build-up is most common. You don’t need to worry too much about the inner surfaces, as your dog’s tongue helps keep those areas cleaner.

• Reward Your Dog

• Make teeth cleaning a positive experience by rewarding your dog with praise, treats, or a favourite toy after each brushing session. This will help them associate brushing with positive reinforcement.

Alternatives to Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth

While brushing is the gold standard for maintaining dog dental health, there are other ways to help keep your dog’s teeth clean if they are resistant to brushing. These alternatives should be used to complement brushing, not replace it entirely.

• Dental Chews

• Dental chews are specially designed to reduce plaque and tartar build-up while satisfying your dog’s natural chewing instinct. Look for chews that have been approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC), as they meet specific standards for reducing plaque and tartar.

• Dental Toys

• Some toys are designed to clean your dog’s teeth as they chew. These toys often have ridges and nubs that help remove food particles and stimulate the gums.

• Water Additives

• Dental water additives can be mixed into your dog’s drinking water to help reduce plaque and freshen their breath. While these can be helpful, they are not as effective as brushing or dental chews.

• Dental Wipes

• Dental wipes are an option for dogs who won’t tolerate brushing. These wipes are rubbed along your dog’s teeth and gums to help remove plaque and food debris. While not as effective as brushing, they can still help maintain oral hygiene.

• Healthy Diet

• Feeding your dog a high-quality, dry dog food can help reduce plaque build-up compared to soft, wet food. Additionally, some specially formulated dental diets are available that are designed to reduce tartar.

Professional Dog Teeth Cleaning

Even with diligent home care, your dog may still need professional teeth cleanings to address hard-to-reach areas and remove hardened tartar that brushing can’t eliminate. Here’s what you can expect from a professional dog teeth cleaning:

• Pre-Cleaning Exam

• Before the cleaning, your vet will perform a physical examination and may recommend blood tests to ensure your dog is healthy enough for anaesthesia. Professional cleanings are done under general anaesthesia to ensure your dog remains still and comfortable throughout the procedure.

• Cleaning and Scaling

• During the procedure, your vet will use specialised tools to remove plaque and tartar both above and below the gum line. This process, called scaling, is essential for preventing gum disease.

• Polishing

• After the cleaning, your dog’s teeth will be polished to smooth the surface and help prevent future plaque build-up.

• Examination and X-Rays

• Your vet may also take X-rays to check for any underlying dental issues, such as abscesses or bone loss. Any loose or damaged teeth may be extracted if necessary.

• Post-Cleaning Care

• After the procedure, your dog will be monitored as they recover from anaesthesia. Your vet will provide you with aftercare instructions, including how to care for their teeth and gums at home.

Signs Your Dog Needs a Professional Dental Cleaning

It’s important to recognise the signs that your dog may need a professional dental cleaning, particularly if you haven’t been keeping up with regular home care. Some common signs that your dog may need a vet visit for their teeth include:

• Bad Breath

• Persistent bad breath (halitosis) is one of the most obvious signs that your dog’s teeth need attention. While some odour is normal, a strong or unpleasant smell could indicate dental disease or infection.

• Tartar Build-Up

• Visible yellow or brown tartar on your dog’s teeth, especially near the gum line, is a sign that a professional cleaning is needed. This hardened plaque cannot be removed with brushing alone.

• Red or Bleeding Gums

• Inflamed or bleeding gums are a sign of gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. Left untreated, this can progress to more serious periodontal disease.

• Difficulty Chewing

• If your dog is having trouble eating or seems to favour one side of their mouth, they may have dental pain from a cavity, broken tooth, or gum disease.

• Loose or Broken Teeth

• Loose or broken teeth require immediate veterinary attention, as they can cause significant pain and lead to infections.

Preventing Dental Disease in Dogs

In addition to regular brushing and professional cleanings, there are steps you can take to help prevent dental disease in your dog:

• Routine Vet Check-Ups

• Make sure your dog gets regular check-ups with your vet, who can monitor their dental health and recommend professional cleanings as needed.

• Monitor for Signs of Dental Issues

• Keep an eye out for signs of dental problems, such as bad breath, red gums, or difficulty eating. The earlier you catch dental disease, the easier it is to treat.

• Chew Toys and Dental Chews

• Provide your dog with plenty of toys and dental chews to keep their teeth clean and strong. These can help reduce plaque and tartar build-up.

• Proper Diet

• A healthy, balanced diet not only supports your dog’s overall health but also contributes to better dental health. Some dry dog foods are formulated to help reduce tartar, while raw bones or special dental treats can help clean teeth naturally.

Conclusion: Maintaining Your Dog’s Dental Health

Good dental care is essential to your dog’s overall well-being. By brushing your dog’s teeth regularly, using dental chews or toys, and scheduling professional cleanings, you can prevent dental disease and ensure that your dog’s teeth stay healthy throughout their life.

If you haven’t already made dental care part of your dog’s routine, now is the perfect time to start. With proper care, your dog will have a healthy mouth, fresh breath, and a bright smile for years to come.