Dental Disease

Periodontal disease is the most common health condition in dogs - studies consistently show that over 80% of dogs over three years old have some degree of dental disease. It begins with plaque (a biofilm of bacteria on tooth surfaces), which mineralises into tartar, then progresses to gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) and periodontal disease (destruction of the structures supporting the teeth).

Beyond the mouth, there is evidence that severe periodontal disease is associated with systemic effects - chronic bacteraemia from the oral cavity reaches the heart, liver, and kidneys. Prevention matters not just for oral health but for whole-body health.

What to monitor monthly

Gum colour and texture: Normal gums are pink and firm. Red, swollen, or bleeding gums indicate gingivitis. Pale gums are a separate concern (possible anaemia or shock).

Plaque and tartar: Plaque is the soft, creamy coating on tooth surfaces. Tartar (calculus) is brown or yellow mineralised deposits, typically most visible at the gum line of the upper back teeth. Note which teeth are most affected.

Halitosis: Some dog breath odour is normal. A persistent, strong, foul smell suggests bacterial infection and is usually a sign of established dental disease or gingivitis.

Tooth condition: Fractured teeth (often the large upper carnassial tooth), loose teeth, or missing teeth. Fractured teeth can be painful and become infected.

Eating behaviour: Dropping food, chewing on one side, reluctance to eat hard kibble, or pawing at the mouth may indicate dental pain.

Home dental care

Daily tooth brushing is the most effective preventive measure. The mechanical action of the brush disrupts plaque before it mineralises. Use a dog-specific toothbrush (or a finger brush) and dog toothpaste - human toothpaste contains xylitol and fluoride, which are toxic to dogs.

If daily brushing isn't achievable, every other day still provides significant benefit over no brushing.

Dental chews and water additives have variable and generally modest evidence but provide some benefit. They do not replace brushing. Choose products with the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) seal for evidence-based options.

Raw meaty bones - there is evidence that gnawing natural bones reduces tartar. This must be balanced against the risk of dental fractures (especially from hard bones) and gastrointestinal obstruction. Discuss with your vet if you want to include this.

Dental grading

Vets assess dental disease using a grading system:

• Grade 0: Healthy teeth and gums
• Grade 1: Plaque without tartar; mild gingivitis
• Grade 2: Tartar present; moderate gingivitis
• Grade 3: Severe tartar; significant gingivitis; early periodontal changes
• Grade 4: Advanced periodontal disease; tooth loss or root exposure

Log the dental grade from each vet check so you can see whether home care is slowing progression between professional cleans.

Professional dental cleaning

When tartar build-up is significant or gingivitis is established, a professional dental clean under general anaesthesia is needed. Anaesthesia is required because a thorough dental examination and scaling (including below the gum line) is not possible in a conscious dog - and dental X-rays, which reveal root disease not visible on the surface, require anaesthesia for safety.

After a professional clean, resuming or intensifying home brushing is essential to prolong the interval before the next clean is needed.

When to contact your vet

Contact your vet routinely for:

• Annual dental assessment as part of the health check
• A professional dental clean when recommended

Contact your vet promptly if:

• Your dog appears to have dental pain (reluctance to eat, pawing at mouth, drooling)
• You notice a broken, loose, or obviously diseased tooth
• The gum tissue is swollen, ulcerated, or bleeding

Frequently Asked Questions

My dog won't let me brush their teeth - what can I do? Start very slowly. Begin with just touching the lips and muzzle, then the gums, then introduce the toothbrush without toothpaste. Associate the process with praise and rewards. Most dogs can be gradually acclimatised over several weeks. Shorter, positive sessions are more effective than long, reluctant ones.

Is dental disease painful for dogs? Yes, often significantly - but dogs rarely vocalise dental pain. The most common sign is subtle: eating more carefully, favouring one side, reduced appetite for kibble, or quieter behaviour. Many owners are surprised at how much better their dog seems after a dental procedure.

How often should my dog have a professional dental clean? Frequency depends on the dog's dental health and how well home care is maintained. Some dogs need annual cleans; others less frequently. Your vet will advise based on examination findings.

Are certain breeds more prone to dental disease? Small breeds and brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs) tend to have overcrowded or misaligned teeth, which accelerates plaque and tartar accumulation. Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Poodles are particularly prone. These breeds benefit from starting a brushing routine as early as possible.

Can dental disease cause other health problems? Severe periodontal disease creates a persistent source of bacteria in the bloodstream (bacteraemia). This is associated with changes in kidney, liver, and cardiac parameters in some studies. Treating dental disease may therefore have benefits beyond the mouth - though the relationship is still being studied.