When our pets are puppies and kittens, we think about their teeth every day. Of course, we’re mostly wondering when those sharp, inquisitive little needles will be replaced by adult teeth and less painful ways of exploring the world. But, once our pets are fully grown, their teeth no longer warrant much concern.

Unfortunately, this tendency to ignore what we can’t see—and what isn’t nipping at our hands and chewing on our shoes!—is exactly why dental disease (i.e., periodontal disease) is the most commonly diagnosed condition among dogs and cats. This painful and progressive disease starts early—nearly 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs by 3 years of age, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Periodontal disease often hides below the gum line until problems are severe enough to require veterinary intervention.

To lift the lip on pet oral health, Caldwell Animal Hospital answers the most common questions about dog and cat dental care.

Question: How often do I need to care for my pet’s teeth?

Answer: Your pet’s oral health should be evaluated annually to check for small changes that may suggest early periodontal disease. The dental exam is a key part of your pet’s yearly visit to Caldwell Animal Hospital, and one of many reasons you should not skip this preventive service simply because your pet appears healthy. 

In between veterinary visits, your pet’s teeth and gums should receive daily attention at home. While this can seem daunting, many homecare options that make maintaining your pet’s dental health a treat—quite literally—are available.

Q: What are periodontal disease signs in pets?

A: Most owners recognize a problem when their pet develops bad breath, but other common signs include:

  • Gingivitis (i.e., inflamed gums)
  • Sensitivity
  • Visibly broken or damaged teeth
  • Bleeding gums
  • Drooling
  • Chewing on one side of the mouth
  • Dropping food
  • Refusing to play with toys 

Q: My pet’s teeth look OK, so why does the veterinarian recommend dental cleaning?

A: By the time most owners notice a problem in their pet’s mouth, it’s too late to save the damaged teeth. Early dental cleanings, which include full-mouth X-rays and probing for gingival pockets, can slow or prevent periodontal disease, saving your pet unnecessary pain and tooth loss.

Q: Why does my pet need anesthesia for a dental cleaning?

A: Anesthesia ensures your pet has a calm and pain-free experience. Dentistry involves many sharp tools, and requires your pet’s prolonged stillness, with their mouth open, which would cause an awake pet to panic and possibly harm themselves or others. Anesthesia is also required to take dental X-rays, clean below the gum line, and safely perform extractions or oral surgery.

Q: Can my pet’s dental care be easily incorporated  into my daily schedule?

A: Yes—many beneficial products can reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Because plaque and bacteria accumulate daily, using or giving these products every day for maximum effectiveness is necessary. The most successful options include:

  • Toothbrushing — This is considered the gold standard of pet dental hygiene. Brushing your pet’s teeth with an enzymatic pet toothpaste creates friction and disrupts bacteria formation. Always use pet-specific toothpaste, as human brands contain fluoride and a foaming agent that can harm pets.
  • Wipes and gels — These may be easier to use in small pets’ mouths, or for owners who find handling the pet toothbrush challenging.
  • Dental diets and treats — Dental foods and treats are a simple way to scrub your pet’s teeth. Most formulas use an oversized fibrous kibble that encourages pets to chew thoroughly.
  • Chews — Dental chews are designed to be pliable, allowing the tooth to sink in and create a 360-degree brushing effect. 
  • Water additives — These additives reduce your pet’s oral bacteria every time they drink water.

Q: How do I choose the best dental products for my pet?

A: The pet dental care market is flooded with products, but they do not all live up to their label claims. When researching a dental product, look for the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal of acceptance, which is awarded only to products that have met specific protocols and demonstrated effectiveness at reducing plaque and tartar buildup. Visit the VOHC website for a complete list of approved products by species, or contact Caldwell Animal Hospital for personalized recommendations. 

Q: How can I teach my pet to accept toothbrushing?

A: First, ensure your pet isn’t experiencing any oral pain that would make brushing uncomfortable or unpleasant. For young pets, or those who have no visible gingivitis or tartar, introduce brushing slowly in short, fun sessions.

  • Try toothpaste — Let your pet lick pet toothpaste applied to your finger.
  • Massage gums — Use your finger like a toothbrush, gently touching each tooth and massaging your pet’s gums.
  • Begin to brush — Introduce the toothbrush or finger brush, or use your finger wrapped in gauze, and brush only a few teeth at a time.
  • Away with plaque — Focus on each tooth’s outer surface, where plaque and tartar are most common.
  • Use an alternative — As a brush-free alternative, apply toothpaste to a rubber chew toy with grooves or nubby surfaces.

Your pet may no longer be nipping at your heels or hands, but their teeth need your attention more than ever. Protect your dog or cat from the perils of periodontal disease with daily home care, and yearly dental assessments and cleanings from Caldwell Animal Hospital. Contact us to schedule your pet’s visit or for dental product recommendations.