The Importance of Dog Teeth Cleaning

As humans, we’re well-trained to brush our teeth twice—or even three times—a day. We don’t even need a treat or a “good boy!” to keep up that habit, since we know how important dental health is for overall health. The same goes for dogs—after all, if we didn’t protect the health of those big chompers, how would they enjoy the occasional bite of chicken or marrow-filled bone? That’s why it’s so important that pet parents understand the best practices around dog teeth cleaning and feel ready (excited, even!) to master the art of at-home dental care. 

 

So, what is dog teeth cleaning? It works similarly to human dentistry. There’s at-home maintenance that you need to do to keep things looking and feeling good day-to-day, and then every year or so, you head to the dentist for a more in-depth examination and teeth cleaning. 

As a pet parent, you can keep your dog’s teeth healthy and cared for by making sure that you have a trusted veterinary dentist to call up. PetSmart Grooming Salon’s offer teeth brushing services, to clean teeth with a tarter control gel to prevent build up and a minty breath freshener. There are also lots of at-home activities that you can do to help keep their teeth clean.  

Most dogs begin to show signs of dental disease around 2–3 years of age and may need their first professional cleaning at that time. After the initial cleaning, many veterinary dentists recommend annual dog teeth cleanings, though the frequency can vary based on your dog’s individual health, age, and dental condition. Talk to your veterinarian to determine the best dental care plan for your dog.  

If you haven’t taken your dog for a teeth cleaning in a year or two—or maybe ever, no judgment here—now’s the perfect time! Or, if your furry best friend is displaying any of the following symptoms, it’s probably a sign that they’d benefit from a veterinary examination and professional teeth cleaning:

At this stage, home remedies are not recommended. Not only are they ineffective once dental disease is present, but trying them could cause your pet pain and increase the risk of biting.  

While a regular dog teeth cleaning session with a professional is important, it doesn’t stop there. Practicing good pet dental care at home can be a great way for you and your pet to bond—and give you peace of mind that they’re staying healthy and happy.  

A good, old-fashioned at-home teeth cleaning is so important for your dog’s oral health. Don’t use human toothpaste, which has ingredients that are toxic for dogs. Instead, look for special dog toothpaste that even comes in appetizing flavors like chicken or beef. What could be better, right? 

 If your dog isn’t used to having their teeth brushed, they may not like it at first—but like any new training habit, don’t underestimate the power of using dog treats and happy voices while you gently acclimatize to them. Use a specially designed dog toothbrush or a finger toothbrush if that’s easier for you. For the most effective dog teeth cleaning at home, you should plan to brush your dog’s teeth once a day.   

Welcome to the dog equivalent of hiding veggies in your kid’s mac ‘n’ cheese. Dog dental chews taste great and feel like the ultimate treat for your pup, while you get the satisfaction of knowing it’s giving them a gentle teeth cleaning. Dental chews help mitigate the build-up of plaque and tartar, with ridges and bumps that stimulate blood flow in the gums.   

Giving your dog a chew toy doesn’t just entertain them for hours—it also supports their oral health! Chewing is the natural way that dogs clean their teeth, as the gnawing motion scrapes plaque off the surface of each tooth. From dog bones to rawhide and nylon to rubber, you’ll be sure to find a type of chew toy that your dog loves. 

Definitely! Brushing your dog’s teeth once a day is a great way to remove plaque and support their dental health. Use a toothbrush and toothpaste that’s been specially formulated for a dog’s digestive system (and tastebuds), and gently brush away! Make sure to reward them with treats and extra pats to help them get used to the new daily routine.   

Daily tooth brushing is the best way to help prevent plaque from building up on your dog’s teeth. You can use a toothbrush designed to reach the nooks and crannies of your pup’s mouth or try a finger toothbrush if that gives you better control.

Dental chews and chew toys can also help reduce buildup between brushings. However, once plaque and tartar are present, brushing alone cannot fully remove them. In those cases, a professional dental cleaning from your veterinarian is necessary. The good news is that after your veterinarian removes plaque and tartar, consistent home care can help slow future buildup and may reduce how often professional cleanings are needed.  

When you head to a professional for dog teeth cleaning, they do a lot: a dental examination, dental x-rays, teeth cleaning, and polishing to remove tartar and plaque. This is typically done while the dog is under general anesthesia, so that they aren’t under stress and the veterinarian can thoroughly examine the mouth and check for signs of periodontal disease. While a veterinarian can do a limited oral exam while the dog is awake, anesthesia is critical for the level of detailed examination that’s needed to protect your dog’s teeth.  

If a dog’s teeth aren’t cleaned or regularly taken care of, they’re not just at risk of bad breath. Without regular dental care, dogs can develop periodontal disease, which may cause painful gum infections, bone loss, and even the loss of teeth. The bacteria associated with dental disease can also affect other parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, and other vital organs. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of your dog’s dental health and schedule regular professional cleanings throughout your pup’s life. 

Need other supplies while you’re shopping for dog dental care? PetSmart also carries dog food, dog beds, dog treats, leashes & harnesses, flea & tick meds and more. Explore PetSmart’s Dog Shop to find everything your pup needs, all in one place. 

PetSmart also offers services such as dog grooming services, expert dog training, safe and comfortable PetsHotel stays, and Doggie Day Camp for your pup to play and socialize. Services are available in select locations—check your local PetSmart to see what’s offered near you. 

PetSmart  offers convenient shopping with Curbside Pickup or in-store pickup. Need something today? We have select items available for Same-Day Delivery in most areas powered by DoorDash. 

For items you purchase frequently, PetSmart has Autoship that automatically delivers the items you want to your door as often as you’d like. Check the website to see which items are eligible. 

Information in this article is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure your pet and is not a substitute for veterinary care provided by a licensed veterinarian. For any medical or health-related advice concerning the care and treatment of your pet, contact your veterinarian.