Why Every Owner Should Focus on Preventative Dental Care for Dogs and Cats

When I'm fortunate enough to welcome a new puppy or kitten to the practice, the first thing I like to do is review basic care with the owner. I discuss all of the essential topics, such as training, feeding, and grooming. One of the topics that is so important and deserves a little extra attention is oral hygiene and dental care.

Most new pet parents have prepared to bring their new member of the family home by doing some research. They understand that handling (i.e., touching their pet's feet, toes, and ears) is very important and a crucial part of getting their pet ready for future veterinary care and grooming. However, they often appear to be surprised when I speak about getting started on pet dental care and introducing their dog or cat to pet toothpaste and brushing techniques, even when their deciduous teeth are still present. But, by starting early and making preventive dental care a part of your pet's regular care routine, you can set them up for a future free from the pain and complications of advanced dental disease.

Why Pet Dental Care Is So Important

Whether pet owners realize it or not, dental disease is extremely common in dogs and cats, with the American Veterinary Medical Association reporting that approximately 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop oral disease by the age of three. With statistics this staggering, it’s evident that a greater emphasis needs to be placed on caring for our pets’ teeth and mouth as a part of their overall health and care plan. Our pets can be affected by a number of different types of dental issues, many of which can be avoided or addressed early on when proper preventive dental care is given. A few of the dental issues we commonly see in dogs and cats include:

• Periodontal Disease
• Gingivitis
• Tooth Resorption
• Fractured or Broken Teeth
• Stomatitis
• Oral Masses or Tumors
• Malocclusion

Periodontal disease, which is inflammation and infection of the tissues surrounding a pet’s teeth, is one of the most common medical issues affecting both dogs and cats. Studies on its prevalence in pets have shown that a majority of adult pets have some component of the disease, with data showing that between 80 and 90% of dogs above the age of three have it to some degree.

Periodontal disease not only causes painful chewing and tooth loss, but it can also allow harmful bacteria to spread to the heart and other organs, leading to serious health issues. Removing plaque before it turns into tartar is the key to preventing periodontal disease, which can be achieved by regular brushings and professional dental checkups and cleanings with your veterinarian.

Preventative pet dental care also has some other advantages outside of your pet’s health: it’s far cheaper than treating advanced dental issues. Pet tooth brushes, dental chews, and professional cleanings are small expenses compared to the cost of extractions, dental surgeries, and supportive care for any other health issues that may arise as a result of poor dental health.

What Owners Know About Pet Dental Care – And What They Don’t

Most pet owners are aware that dogs and cats need dental care just like we do, but they often don’t understand just how common dental disease is in dogs and cats and the extent to which it can impact their health and quality of life. While the basics of pet dental care are good to know,

Today’s pet owners underestimate just how much regular dental care is needed to keep their dog or cat in good health. Think about it; when was the last time you brushed your pet’s teeth? When was the last time you took your pet in for a professional cleaning? For many owners, they probably can’t remember exactly when that was, which is a major problem.

What Most Owners Know About Dental Care for Dogs and Cats

• Bad breath usually means dental problems.
• Pets can develop plaque and tartar buildup.
• Brushing helps maintain oral health.
• Veterinarians offer dental cleanings that are safe and effective.
• Tooth loss can happen if dental issues aren’t treated.

What Owners Often Don’t Realize About Pet Dental Care

• Dental disease is extremely common, with thousands of pets needing advanced dental care each year.
• Oral bacteria don’t just stay in the mouth; they can spread and damage the heart, liver, and kidneys.
• Dental care should start with puppies and kittens. You don’t need to wait until they have their “adult” teeth in!
• Brushing every once in a while isn’t always enough; it’s crucial to adopt a regular schedule to keep your pet’s gums and teeth clean and free from plaque and tartar. Teeth should be brushed at least three times a week to prevent plaque from adhering to the teeth.
• Pets rarely show clear signs of mouth pain, so problems may be more advanced than they appear. Even teeth that appear white and clean could be infected or problematic.
• Small dog breeds and cats are especially prone to dental issues, so owners of these types of breeds will need to pay special attention to their pets' dental health.
• Preventative care costs far less than advanced treatments like extractions.
• Dental chews and toys are helpful, but they’re not enough on their own.
• Cats face unique issues such as tooth resorption and stomatitis, which aren’t obvious without a vet exam. So even if your cat appears normal and healthy, they still could have dental disease.

Signs of Dental Disease in Dogs and Cats

Dental disease can be tricky for owners to spot because it can develop quietly – and let’s be honest, most owners aren’t thoroughly inspecting their pet’s mouth regularly. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to get your dog or cat to the vet for a dental checkup.

• Bad breath 
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup on teeth
• Loose or missing teeth
• Drooling or pawing at the mouth
  Difficulty eating
• Changes in behavior
• Facial swelling
• Weight loss or decreased appetite

In addition to these clinical symptoms of dental disease in dogs and cats, there are also some red flags that your current dental care routine isn’t enough.

• You can’t remember the last time you brushed your pet’s teeth (or you’ve never done it).
• Your vet has mentioned plaque or tartar buildup during exams or wellness checkups.
• You notice mild bad breath — even “doggy breath” isn’t normal.
• Your pet has never had a professional dental cleaning (especially if they’re over 2–3 years old).
• You rely only on treats or chews but don’t brush regularly.

How to Clean Your Pet’s Teeth at Home

Brushing your dog or cat’s teeth is one of the simplest and best ways owners can care for their pet’s teeth at home. The key to successfully getting your dog or cat to let you regularly brush their teeth is to establish a set routine and do your best to make every experience with a toothbrush a positive one. I have found that the greatest success comes when pet toothpaste in a likable flavor is introduced on the owner's finger. This allows an easy way to move around the mouth carefully.

Again, creating positive experiences is so very important so that the puppy or kitten doesn't object in the future. Avoid rushing to use a toothbrush right away. If the toothbrush slips and bumps the gums, it can create a negative experience and make them resistant in the future. Once your pet is comfortable, you can gradually introduce a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Older dogs and cats can benefit from this slower and more controlled approach as well. I encourage clients to start with the same technique to gradually gain acceptance of using a toothbrush. Over time, your pet will learn to accept regular brushing, which makes it much easier to maintain their dental health after a professional cleaning.

In addition to brushing, other tools like dental wipes, approved dental chews, and water additives can also support your pet’s dental health.

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