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Paws-itively Perfect Smiles: Dog Dental Health

dog vaccination. puppy vaccination

What Is Dog Dental Disease?

Dog dental disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a very common health issue in dogs that can significantly affect their quality of life. It typically begins with the accumulation of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria and food debris that constantly forms on the tooth surface. Over time, if not removed, plaque hardens into tartar (also known as calculus). This hardened substance strongly bonds to tooth enamel and can cause gingivitis (gum inflammation).

A close-up, high-angle shot shows the open mouth of a small, light-colored dog, likely a poodle mix, undergoing a dental procedure. A blue glove is visible on the left, holding the dog's muzzle open to reveal its upper and lower teeth. Many of the teeth, especially the canines and molars, are heavily stained with yellow and brown tartar and plaque buildup. The gums appear inflamed and red, particularly along the gumline, indicating significant periodontal disease. Some areas show a darker, almost black discoloration on the gums or inner lips. The dog's tongue is visible at the bottom of the frame, and a dental instrument, possibly a scaler, is visible on the lower right, near the lower jaw. The lighting is bright and clinical.

If left unaddressed, it can lead to pain, tooth loss, jaw bone degeneration, and even contribute to other serious health problems affecting vital organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

Plaque, Tartar & Gingivitis

 

Plaque

This is a colourless film made up of saliva, food debris, and microorganisms like bacteria. You might feel it as a “slimy” or “furry” coating on your teeth at the end of the day. If plaque isn’t consistently removed manually, it can harden into tartar.

Tartar

Tartar is a hard, calcified deposit that forms on teeth when plaque isn’t removed consistently. It starts as soft, sticky plaque, but minerals from saliva cause it to harden, usually within 24 to 72 hours. The longer the teeth are not cleaned and cared for, the more tartar that forms. Unlike plaque, which can be brushed away, tartar requires professional dental tools for removal.

Gingivitis

This is gum inflammation caused by plaque and bacteria buildup along the gum line. Gingivitis is painful, and the gums may appear red, swollen, and tender. As it progresses, the gums are prone to bleeding when chewing, eating, or even during brushing. If left untreated, gingivitis can lead to further gum disease, irreversible gum recession, root exposure, jaw bone degradation, and eventually tooth loss.

An illustration contrasting a healthy tooth and gums with a tooth affected by periodontitis. On the left, a

What Causes Dental Disease In Dogs?

Several factors contribute to dental disease in dogs including:

Limited Dental Care

Unlike humans, dogs don’t receive daily dental care, unless their owners provide it. Without regular brushing, plaque and tartar build up quickly.

Diet

Dogs primarily fed soft or wet foods are often more prone to dental issues. Kibble or dental-specific diets can help scrape plaque off teeth as it develops.

Age

The risk of dental disease increases with age. By age three, most dogs show signs of periodontal disease.

Breed & Genetic

Some breeds are more predisposed to dental problems. Short-faced (brachycephalic) breeds like Pugs, French Bulldogs are often more susceptible due to tooth crowding.

What Are The Signs?

    • Bad breath (halitosis)
    • Red, inflamed or bleeding gum lines
    • Yellow or brown staining or buildup on the teeth
    • Drooling
    • Loose or missing teeth
    • Difficulty eating or chewing
    • ​​​​​​​Pawing at the mouth
    • Reduced appetite or weight loss (in advanced cases)
A close-up, eye-level shot shows the open mouth of a tan and dark brown dog, revealing its teeth and gums. The most prominent feature is a large, discolored canine tooth in the foreground, stained yellowish-brown with visible plaque buildup, particularly near the gum line. The gums around this tooth and others are noticeably red and inflamed, indicating gingivitis or periodontal disease. Some smaller white teeth are visible further back in the mouth. The dog's dark lips and some light brown fur around the mouth are also visible. The lighting is bright and direct, highlighting the dental issues.

My Dog Still Eats, So They Can’t Be in Pain, Right?

It’s a common misconception that if a pet is still eating, they aren’t in pain. However, animals are incredibly good at hiding pain.

Their instinct to eat to survive often takes precedence, even when chewing hurts. Because of this, many pets with significant dental disease will continue to eat, though they might be experiencing considerable discomfort.

Signs of pain can be subtle, and often, by the time a pet shows obvious signs like difficulty eating or a complete loss of appetite, the dental disease is already advanced.

Beyond The Mouth

Dental disease is more than just bad breath; it can lead to serious health issues that affect your dog’s overall well-being. Dogs with dental disease carry a higher bacterial load in their mouths. When gums are inflamed, these bacteria can enter the bloodstream directly. Once in circulation, they can spread to and infect other organs, especially the liver, kidneys, and heart.

Studies also show that dogs with dental disease have an increased risk of developing congestive heart failure, a progressive and potentially fatal condition.

With regular care and attention, you can help your dog maintain a healthy mouth and avoid painful and costly dental problems down the line. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s dental health to create a care plan that fits their needs

A little effort today can contribute to a healthy, happy life for your beloved companion tomorrow.

How To Look After Your Dogs Teeth

Daily Toothbrushing

This is the most effective way to remove plaque. Use a soft pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste; never use human toothpaste. It may take time to train your dog, but even brushing a few times a week can make a significant difference. Using positive reinforcement and cooperative care techniques can help your dog learn to accept brushing.

hand brushing dog's tooth for dental care

Dental Diets

Look for food approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). These products are scientifically designed and proven to reduce plaque and/or tartar buildup. We regularly recommend dental diets such as Hill’s and Royal Canin. Please note that some of the products listed on the VOHC may not be available in Australia.

A picture of a bag of Hills Dental Care dog food

Treats

Look for treats approved by the VOHC, such as Oravet Dental Chews. The chewing action removes plaque on the teeth all the way down to the gumline. As this occurs, delmopinol is released and coats the teeth to help prevent bacterial attachment.
It’s crucial to avoid hard treats like horns and hooves. These can cause serious issues such as tooth fractures, gum damage, and gastrointestinal problems like blockages. As a general rule, if you can’t indent the treat with your fingernail, it’s too hard for your dog’s teeth.

A photo of a bag of Oravet Dental Dog Chews

Water Additives, Oral Powders and Oral Rinses

These products can help reduce bacterial load and freshen breath, although they are not a substitute for regular brushing. Stick to those on the VOHC list and use as directed.
Plaque Off Powder aids in softening and removal of existing tartar build up and prevents new tartar from forming, reducing bad breath.

A picture of Plaque Off Powder for Dogs

Bones…?

Giving dogs bones for dental health is controversial, as the potential risks might outweigh any benefits. Chewing bones can cause serious issues such as tooth fractures, gum damage, and gastrointestinal problems, including blockages.
Studies suggest that chewing bones may help to remove tartar from the tips of a dog’s teeth. However, it’s important to note that it doesn’t clean the base, below the gumline or effectively prevent the plaque buildup responsible for dental issues.
If you choose to feed bones, ensure they are size-appropriate (bigger than your dog’s mouth), uncooked, and given only under supervision.
You can learn more here: RSPCA Bone Feeding

A close-up, eye-level shot captures a large Bernese Mountain Dog lying on vibrant green grass, its gaze directed straight at the camera. The dog, predominantly black with distinctive brown and white markings, is deeply engrossed in chewing on a sizable bone, its mouth wide open to reveal its teeth. The lush green lawn fills the foreground and midground, while a hint of blurred, sunlit greenery suggests trees or bushes in the background. The lighting is bright and even, highlighting the dog's fur and the texture of the grass.

Regular Veterinary Dental Exams

Annual dental check-ups with your veterinarian can catch problems early. Your vet may recommend professional dental cleanings under anesthesia if required, which allows for thorough cleaning.

A very close-up, low-angle shot focuses on a dog's snout, capturing it from its nostrils to its exposed teeth and tongue. The dog's fur is a mix of white and shades of brown, with some darker markings around its eyes and nose. The canine's upper lip is curled back, revealing its front teeth and gums, while its lower jaw is slightly agape, showing a bit of its tongue and lower teeth. The background is softly blurred, hinting at a light-colored, possibly fabric, surface. The lighting is soft and even, highlighting the textures of the dog's fur, nose, and teeth.

Dental Cleaning By A Vet

Dogs, unfortunately, require general anaesthesia for dental procedures. Taking dental x-rays, probing the gumlines, using loud and vibrational instruments like scalers, injecting local anaesthetic and removing a tooth from a dog that is awake would be impossible. It would also be incredibly stressful and unsafe to the pet and wouldn’t allow for proper treatment. Dental cleaning by a veterinarian usually includes the following services:

    • Oral health examination to assess the condition of the teeth, roots, gums, and overall mouth
    • Full-mouth dental X-rays to check the health of tooth structures and root systems
    • Scale and polish to remove plaque and tartar, including under the gum line
    • Local anesthetic application to numb the area
    • Tooth/teeth extraction
    • Suturing the gum line closed (if required)
A side-by-side comparison image shows the "BEFORE" and "AFTER" results of a dog's dental cleaning. On the left, labeled "BEFORE," a close-up shot of a dog's open mouth reveals severely neglected teeth. The teeth are heavily coated in yellow and brown tartar and plaque, particularly at the gum line. The gums appear red and inflamed, indicating significant periodontal disease. The dog has long, reddish-brown and black fur around its muzzle. On the right, labeled "AFTER," the same dog's mouth is shown after a professional dental cleaning. The teeth are now remarkably clean, white, and free of tartar and plaque. The gums appear much healthier, with a pinker, less inflamed appearance. The contrast between the two images is stark, effectively demonstrating the dramatic improvement in the dog's dental health after the cleaning. In both images, a hand is gently holding the dog's muzzle open.

Dental Staging

At Paws At Prospect Vet, we use a two-stage protocol for our dental procedures to address varying degrees of dental disease in pets.  This is becoming a more common practice in veterinary medicine. But what is dental staging, and why do we do it? Learn more in our blog, Dental Staging: Sometimes 2 Is Better Than 1

A close-up shot of a dental scaling procedure being performed on a cat's tooth. A gloved hand holds a lit dental scaler, which is vibrating against a discolored canine tooth, presumably removing plaque and tartar. Fine mist or water droplets are visible around the scaler tip, indicating the use of an ultrasonic scaler. The surrounding gum tissue appears somewhat red.

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