Dental care is a valuable part of your dog's oral care routine. If good oral hygiene is not kept up on a regular basis, periodontal disease will likely recur and cause problems for your pet. Here at Woodward, we recommend regular checkups every six months alongside home dental care.
At Woodward Veterinary Practice, we propose that your dog’s dental hygiene is just as important as any other routine and preventative treatment. Just like humans, dogs can develop a build-up of tartar, leading to tooth decay and gum disease.
We encourage regular home dental care and appropriate tooth cleaning diets, including regular dental checks every six months. Brushing your dog’s teeth once or twice a day is the best option for good oral hygiene. We additionally have products such as liquids to add to their water to help reduce plaque build-up and reduce bad breath (halitosis), as well as veterinary dental diets. Here at Woodward Veterinary Practice, we are more than happy to discuss these different products, diets and dental treatment options that may be of interest to you at the surgery and answer any questions you may have.
Symptoms of Dog Dental Disease
Dogs are very good at hiding signs of oral pain and dental disease. Some dogs with severe dental disease, including root exposure, severe gingivitis (inflammation of the gums), and tooth root infections, will continue to eat, showing only subtle signs that something is wrong. This can result in a dog having multiple teeth extracted at one time as opposed to one tooth extraction. Build-up of plaque and tarter will not be removed by teeth brushing alone, if this is already present, the best action for this is a scale and polish to remove this, followed by tooth brushing to prevent the build-up from occurring again. A general anaesthesia is required for all dental procedures, however, having a routine scale and polish carried out to prevent dental disease from progressing is a hugely reduced anaesthetic time compared to multiple extractions being carried out.
Is Your Dog Showing Signs Of Dental Disease?

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Bad breath (halitosis)
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Noticeable tartar build-up on teeth
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Red or inflamed gums (Gingivitis)
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Discoloured teeth
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Drooling
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Loose teeth
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Bleeding from the mouth
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Reluctance to eat
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Chewing on one side of the mouth
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Dropping food from the mouth when eating
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Swelling around the mouth (from potential root abscesses)
How Dental Disease Can Be Prevented in Dogs
The best way to maintain healthy teeth is to brush your dog’s teeth daily. This is easiest to start when your dog is younger but can be introduced at any age. It is also beneficial to have a scale and polish performed regularly to clean their teeth thoroughly. This is similar to the treatment we would receive from a dental hygienist. These are done under a short general anaesthetic as dogs won’t sit in one position for a prolonged period and we must ensure their safety and the team’s safety when in the vicinity of sharp teeth!
If you need help and advice on introducing daily brushing to your dog, the team at Woodward Veterinary Practice is happy to help, just ask for more details at the surgery.
Why Does Dog Dental Disease Occur?
Food and saliva that is left behind on the teeth will form plaque on the tooth. Plaque is soft and can be removed by brushing or using alternative dental products. If not removed, the plaque will harden forming tartar, which is difficult to remove without dentistry intervention. If tartar is not removed (normally via the scale and polish procedure) then bacteria will spread below the gumline, causing red sore gums. This is called gingivitis and periodontitis, which in turn can lead to loose teeth, infection of the tooth root and jawbone infections.
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Dog Dental Care FAQs
Can dogs get cavities like humans?
Yes, dogs can get cavities, but they are much less common than in humans. This is due to the natural pH of a dog’s mouth, which is more alkaline and helps prevent the formation of cavities. However, cavities can still occur, especially if your dog eats a diet high in sugar or has poor dental hygiene.
Can poor dental health in dogs affect their behaviour?
Yes, poor dental health can lead to pain, discomfort, and even infections, which can impact your dog’s behavior. A dog with dental pain may become irritable, less playful, or may avoid eating or chewing. They might also paw at their face or seem generally less active. Addressing dental issues can improve both their health and mood.
Can dry food help keep my dog’s teeth clean?
Dry food, or kibble, can help reduce plaque to a small degree, as it is more abrasive than wet food. However, it is not a substitute for brushing or professional cleanings. Some veterinary-recommended dental diets are specifically designed with larger kibble or special textures to help scrub the teeth as your dog eats.
Can diet affect my dog’s dental health?
Yes, your dog’s diet plays a big role in their dental health. Some dry kibbles and prescription dental diets are designed to reduce plaque and tartar buildup. Chewing dry food can help scrape off plaque, while wet food tends to stick to the teeth more. However, both can be part of a healthy diet when balanced with good oral care. Ask your vet about a diet that supports dental health.
Are there breeds more prone to dental problems?
Yes, some dog breeds are more prone to dental issues, especially small breeds and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Dogs with crowded teeth, such as Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Poodles, and Bulldogs, tend to accumulate more plaque and are at a higher risk of dental disease.
What are dog dental chews, and do they really work?
Dog dental chews are treats designed to help clean your dog’s teeth by scraping off plaque and tartar as they chew. They can be a helpful supplement to brushing, but they are not a replacement for regular dental care. Make sure to choose vet-approved dental chews that are safe and effective for your dog.
How soon should I start dental care for my puppy?
You should start dental care as soon as you bring your puppy home, even if they still have their baby teeth. Begin by gently introducing your puppy to brushing so they become comfortable with the process. Early dental care helps prevent problems later in life and ensures your dog grows up with healthy teeth and gums.