Complete Guide to Dental Care for Your Dog’s Life Stages

Dental issues are unfortunately very common in adult and senior dogs, but many can be prevented by appropriate care starting in puppyhood. Maintaining good dental health in dogs isn’t just about having a nice smile, though; it’s about preventing serious diseases like periodontitis that can lead to tooth loss and even affect your dog’s vital organs. 

In this article, we’ll cover how to look after your dog’s teeth, discuss the risks of poor dental hygiene, and explain why regular dental check-ups with your vet are so important.

How to Look After Your Dog’s Teeth

Although vets can provide professional dental cleaning for dogs, the most effective dental care starts at home. Here are some tips for maintaining good dental health in dogs:

1. Toothbrushing

Daily brushing with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste is one of the most effective ways to keep your dog’s mouth healthy. Begin this routine when your dog is a puppy to help them get used to it. There are plenty of guides on introducing toothbrushing to your puppy if you need advice on how to get started.

2. Dental Toys and Chews

Dental toys designed for dogs are a great way to help remove plaque and tartar build-up. When used alongside regular brushing, they can be a useful addition to your dog’s dental care routine.

3. Dental Diets

Special dental diets are designed to help reduce tartar build-up and promote oral health. It’s important to consult your vet before switching your dog’s diet, as what’s suitable can vary based on age, health status, and individual needs.

4. Water Additives

Dog-safe dental water additives can be added to your dog’s drinking water to help fight plaque and freshen breath. While not a replacement for brushing, they can be a helpful supplement to your dog’s dental care routine.

5. Regular Vet Check-Ups

Annual vet check-ups should include a dental exam to identify any early signs of dental disease. Your vet can perform a professional cleaning if needed, which involves scaling and polishing under anaesthesia.

Dental Health and Disease in Dogs

There are several common dental diseases and conditions that can affect dogs, including:

Dental Plaque and Tartar

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar (also known as calculus), which is much harder to remove and can lead to gum disease. Regular brushing and professional cleaning can help manage plaque and tartar build-up.

Periodontal (Gum) Disease

This is the most common dental disease in dogs, affecting the gums and the tissues supporting the teeth. It starts with gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and can progress to periodontitis (damage to the structures supporting the teeth). Without treatment, it can lead to tooth loss and can even affect the dog’s heart, kidneys, and liver.

Tooth Fractures

Dogs can fracture their teeth, often by chewing on hard objects like bones or rocks. A fractured tooth can be very painful and may need to be extracted or repaired by a vet.

Tooth Resorption

Tooth resorption is more common in cats but can occur in dogs. It involves the progressive destruction of the tooth structure and can be very painful. It’s important to have any affected teeth identified and treated by a vet.

Oral Cancer

Although not strictly a dental disease, oral cancer can occur in dogs. Regular dental check-ups can help identify any unusual growths or changes in the mouth that may need further investigation.

The Risks of Poor Dental Hygiene

Poor dental hygiene can lead to a range of serious health issues in dogs, including periodontal disease, tooth loss, and even organ damage. The bacteria from dental diseases can enter the bloodstream and potentially affect the heart, kidneys, and liver. This highlights the importance of regular dental check-ups and daily dental care at home to maintain your dog’s overall health and wellbeing.