If the first thing you notice when you get close to your dog or cat is their breath, it is not “normal for their age.” Bad odor is usually the first clue of plaque and tartar, and gum disease is one of the most common problems in adult dogs and cats. The good news is that much of it can be prevented at home.
Why it matters so much
Plaque is a film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day. If it is not removed, it hardens and becomes tartar, which cannot be brushed away. Underneath, the gums become inflamed and, over time, the tooth may lose support and become painful. Furthermore, that persistent infection in the mouth has been linked to problems in other organs.
Signs to look for:
- Persistent bad breath.
- Yellow or brown tartar, especially on the canines and back molars.
- Red or bleeding gums.
- Chewing on one side, dropping food, or refusing hard kibble.
- Drooling or touching their mouth with their paw.
Small dog breeds, such as Yorkies, Chihuahuas, or Toy Poodles, are more prone to tartar buildup, so it is important to be especially consistent with them.
Brushing: what works best
No treat or toy replaces a toothbrush, because only the brush truly scrubs away plaque, including at the gum line. The ideal is to brush daily, since plaque forms every day. If you can't manage that, the more days a week, the better.
What you need:
- A pet toothbrush or a silicone finger brush, sized appropriately for their mouth.
- Toothpaste specifically for animals. Never use human toothpaste: it is made to be spit out and may contain fluoride, foaming agents, or even xylitol, which they should not swallow.
How to get them used to it, step by step
The key is to go slowly and have them associate it with something good. Dedicate one or two weeks to this:
- Touch their mouth for a few seconds, lift their lip, and reward them. That’s all.
- Let them lick the toothpaste off your finger. Many have flavors they like.
- Rub their teeth with your finger and a little toothpaste, starting with the canines, which are the easiest.
- Switch to the toothbrush, using gentle, circular motions on the outside of the teeth, where the most tartar accumulates. The inside is cleaned quite well by the tongue.
- Always finish before they get overwhelmed and with a treat or some playtime.
It works the same with a cat, but with even more patience. If you start when they are a puppy or a kitten, they will accept it much better, although an adult can also learn.
What helps (as a supplement)
- Dental snacks and toys. Mechanical friction helps reduce some plaque. Choose the right size and make sure they don't swallow large pieces.
- Dental kibble. Some have kibble designed to clean teeth while chewing.
- Water additives and gels. They can help, especially for animals that won't let you brush their teeth.
An important note: avoid things that are very hard, such as bones, antlers, or hooves. If you cannot make a mark on the surface with your fingernail, it may be hard enough to fracture a tooth, especially the large molars.
When a veterinarian is needed
Checking the mouth should be part of the annual check-up. If there is already tartar, brushing will not remove it: a professional cleaning under general anesthesia is required. Anesthesia is not just a luxury: it allows for cleaning below the gum line, which is where the problem is, checking each tooth, and taking X-rays if necessary. “Anesthesia-free” cleanings only scrape what is visible and leave the important parts untreated.
After a cleaning is the best time to start brushing: you are starting from zero and what you do at home is much more effective.
In our dog grooming and hygiene section, you can find hygiene products to include oral care in their routine.