When a new puppy or kitten comes to the practice, the initial visit is an important opportunity to review essential aspects of care with the owner. Conversations often focus on training, nutrition, grooming and socialization. One area that deserves extra attention, but is frequently overlooked, is oral hygiene and dental care.
Most new pet parents arrive well prepared and understand the importance of handling their pet's feet, toes, ears, and mouth to help them feel comfortable during future veterinary visits and grooming. However, many are surprised to learn that dental care should begin early, with the introduction of pet-safe toothpaste and gentle brushing even while baby (deciduous) teeth are still present.
By starting early and making dental care a consistent part of a pet's routine, owners can help set their dog or cat up for a lifetime of healthier teeth, healthier gums, and fewer painful dental problems in the future.
Why Pet Dental Care Is So Important
Dental disease is one of the most common medical conditions affecting dogs and cats. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, 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 by far the most common. Studies show that between 80 and 90% of dogs above the age of three have some degree of periodontal disease.
This condition doesn't just cause bad breath and tooth loss, it can be painful and allow bacteria to enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the heart, liver, and kidneys. The key to prevention is removing plaque before it hardens into tartar, which is best achieved through regular brushing and professional veterinary dental cleanings.
Preventative dental care also makes financial sense. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental chews, and routine cleanings are far less expensive than treating advanced dental disease, which may require extractions, surgery, and ongoing medical care.
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. 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
There are also signs that your current dental routine may not be sufficient such as:
- You've never brushed your pet's teeth or can't remember the last time
- Your veterinarian has mentioned plaque or tartar buildup
- You pet has persistent "doggy" or "kitty" breath
- 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 a pet's teeth is one of the most effective ways to protect dental health at home. Success depends on patience, consistency, and creating positive experiences.
A helpful starting point is introducing pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste) on a finger. This allows pets to become familiar with the taste and sensation in a gentle, controlled way. Once they are comfortable, a soft-bristled toothbrush can be gradually introduced.
Rushing the process should be avoided. If a toothbrush slips and irritates the gums, it can create a negative experience that makes future brushing more difficult. Slow, positive steps are especially important for puppies and kittens.
Older dogs and cats can also benefit from this gradual approach. With time and consistency, most pets learn to tolerate regular brushing, making it easier to maintain good dental health between professional cleanings.
In addition to brushing, tools such as dental wipes, veterinarian-approved dental chews, and water additives can help support oral health. However, these options are most effective when used as part of a complete dental care routine rather than as a replacement to brushing.
If you have questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (218) 692-4400, or you can email us at [email protected]. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram.