Neglecting your dog’s dental hygiene can lead to a range of complications impacting their overall health, comfort, and even lifespan. This makes maintaining your dog’s teeth a crucial part of responsible pet ownership. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from a range of dental problems like gingivitis, tooth decay, and other oral infections. 

This article provides a brief overview of important aspects of canine dental care and what you can do to help keep your dog’s mouth healthy and clean.   

Gingivitis, gum disease, and periodontal disease in dogs

When talking about gum disease in dogs, some terminology can be confusing as the terms gingivitis, gum disease, and periodontal disease are often used interchangeably. However, there are medical distinctions between these terms:

  • Gingivitis: This is the earliest stage of gum disease. It's characterized by inflammation of the gums, often caused by plaque buildup. Gingivitis is reversible with proper treatment.  
  • Gum disease: This is a general term that encompasses all stages of gum inflammation and infection. It can range from mild gingivitis to severe periodontal disease.   
  • Periodontal disease: This is the more advanced and serious stage of gum disease. It involves inflammation and destruction of the tissues that support the teeth, including the gums, and bones. It can lead to tooth loss and other health problems.   

You can help prevent gum disease developing by brushing your dog’s teeth and gums regularly. 

 

Signs of gum disease and tooth infections in dogs

The symptoms of canine gum disease are not always obvious, but there are signs to looks out for which include:

  • Bad breath (halitosis)
  • Red, swollen gums
  • Bleeding gums
  • Loose teeth
  • Difficulty chewing
  • Pawing at the mouth
  • Drooling

Signs of tooth infection and toothaches can also include:

  • Decreased appetite or difficulty eating
  • Excessive drooling
  • Facial swelling
  • Changes in behavior like grumpiness or irritability

 

What to do if your dog has dental issues

Brushing is prevention against teeth and gum issues, but if your dog is experiencing symptoms of dental problems then you should take them to the vet for an examination. The sooner dental issues are addressed, the easier it is to stop complications developing.

Treatments can include:

  • Dental cleaning: A professional dental clean removes plaque and tartar and can ease a lot of discomfort your dog is having. 
  • Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection. 
  • Tooth extractions: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove affected teeth. 
  • Anti-inflammatory pain relief: Pain medication may be prescribed for more serve cases.

 

How to clean your dog's teeth and gums

Use dog-specific toothpaste

Human toothpaste contains ingredients like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs. Always use toothpaste formulated specifically for dogs. Additionally, dogs don’t instinctively spit and would sallow regular toothpaste which can make them sick. Dog toothpaste is designed not to be spat out and is safe for them to sallow.

Choose a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs 

While it’s possible to use a regular toothbrush, it’s better to use toothbrushes designed for dog use. Dog toothbrushes have softer bristles which are kinder to the gums and have smaller heads which make it easier to reach all surfaces. 
Silicone finger brushes are a popular option as they are easier to use and allow quicker brushing across all angles.

Getting your dogs used to teeth brushing 

Ideally you should start when they’re a puppy and brush their teeth everyday so they accept that it’s part of their routine. But when introducing a dog to brushing later in life, you should start slowly and gently. 

Here is an instructional video from UK vet charity PDSA on how best to introduce your dog to teeth brushing:

The basics:

  • Get them used to the taste of the toothpaste by letting them lick a small amount from your finger. 
  • Before introducing the toothbrush, rub a soft cloth on their teeth and gums so they get used to having something in their mouth.
  • Once they are used to the cloth, use your finger to rub toothpaste on their teeth and gums. This again gets them used to the sensation gradually. 
  • You can then introduce the toothbrush and use small circular motions on the teeth and gums.

 

How often should you brush your dogs teeth?

Vets suggest the more regularly you brush your dog’s teeth the better, so recommend doing it every day. However, this is not always realistic, but brushing two or three times a week can hugely benefit your dog’s dental hygiene and help prevent gum disease developing.  

Professional dental checks

Annual dental checks at the vet are recommended for most dogs. These appointments can spot early signs of gum and tooth issues, and a professional clean is normally carried out that removes plaque and tartar buildup.

 

Why chew and tug toys can be good for dogs’ teeth

While not a replacement for regular brushing, tug toys and other chew toys can contribute to dental health. The chewing action helps scrape away plaque and tartar buildup, particularly on the back teeth. Dog-specific toys are best as these are made to be highly durable that won’t splinter or break easily. 

 

Other canine mouth infections

Dogs can also get abscesses or oral candidiasis (yeast infection) in the mouth.

Abscesses are pus-filled pockets often caused by infected teeth. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and difficulty eating. Treatment usually involves draining the abscess, antibiotics, and sometimes tooth extraction.

Oral candidiasis symptoms include redness, inflammation, and white patches in the mouth. Treatment involves antifungal medication.

If you believe your dog is experiencing these symptoms you should consult your vet.

 

Disclaimer: This article is designed to give dog owners a basic overview of dog dental hygiene and care. It has not been written by a veterinarian. You should always consult your vet if you have concerns about your dog’s health.