Dog Dental Health: The Everyday Habit That Adds Years to Your Pup’s Life
Healthy teeth are about more than fresh breath. Periodontal disease affects a majority of dogs and is linked to pain, infection and even problems in the heart, liver and kidneys. In 2023, veterinarians at Banfield diagnosed dental issues in 73 percent of dogs they saw, making oral care one of the biggest opportunities to improve your dog’s quality of life. Banfield Pet Hospital®
Why dental health matters
Comfort and behavior
Gum inflammation and tooth root pain can show up as picky eating, pawing at the mouth or irritability.Whole-body health
Bacteria from diseased gums can enter the bloodstream and strain other organs over time.Prevention beats treatment
Routine care at home reduces tartar and can delay or avoid costly procedures later. The AVMA notes pets can develop many of the same dental problems people do, from periodontal disease to abscesses. AVMA
What healthy dog teeth look like
Gums are pink, not red or puffy.
Breath is mild, not sour or foul.
Teeth are off-white with minimal visible tartar near the gumline.
No drooling, dropping food or facial swelling.
Red flags you should not ignore
Bad breath that lingers
Red or bleeding gums
Brown or yellow buildup at the gumline
Loose, broken or missing teeth
Pain when chewing or reluctance to play with toys
If you see these, book a vet visit. Professional dental exams and cleanings under anesthesia are the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment. AVMA
A simple weekly routine that works
Daily or near-daily brushing
Use a dog-safe toothpaste and a soft brush or finger brush. Aim for 30 to 60 seconds per side. Focus on the outer surfaces where plaque builds fastest.
VOHC-accepted chews
Between brushings, use dental chews or water additives with the Veterinary Oral Health Council seal to help reduce plaque and tartar. AVMA
Smart feeding
Stick to a balanced diet and limit sticky, sugary treats that cling to teeth.
Regular checkups
Your vet can spot hidden problems early and advise on timing for professional cleanings. Annual wellness exams are a good baseline; some dogs need dental rechecks more often.
Breed and age factors
Small breeds, brachycephalic breeds and seniors tend to develop dental disease earlier and may need more frequent cleanings and home care. AVMA
Home care checklist to print
Brush teeth most days of the week
Offer one VOHC-accepted chew on non-brushing days
Rinse bowls daily and replace toothbrushes every 3 months
Log breath changes, gum color and appetite in a note on your phone
Schedule an annual dental exam with your vet
Cleaner yards support healthier mouths
Keeping outdoor spaces free of waste reduces the bacteria and parasites your dog encounters while sniffing and playing. Pair your at-home dental routine with a consistently clean yard and you’ll stack the odds in your pup’s favor.
CleanYardHQ keeps PA yards clean, fresh and ready for play. Book weekly or bi-weekly service today and focus on more brushing and more fetch while we handle the scooping.
