How to Clean Your Pet’s Teeth and Why It Matters for Their Health

When was the last time you brushed your pet’s teeth? If your answer is “never” or “rarely,” you’re not alone. Many loving pet parents underestimate the importance of dental care, but the truth is—a healthy mouth leads to a healthier pet.

Just like humans, dogs and cats are vulnerable to plaque, tartar buildup, gum disease, and painful infections if their teeth are neglected. In fact, over 80% of dogs and 70% of cats show signs of dental disease by age three. The good news? You can take simple steps to keep your pet’s mouth clean and avoid serious health problems down the line.

Why Dental Health Matters

Oral hygiene is more than fresh breath—it’s about your pet’s total well-being. Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. Untreated dental disease can also cause chronic pain and difficulty eating.

Some common signs of dental trouble in pets include:

• Bad breath
• Red or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar on the teeth
• Pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty chewing or loss of appetite

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to take action.

Brushing: The Gold Standard

The most effective way to clean your pet’s teeth is regular brushing. It may seem intimidating at first, but with patience and the right approach, most pets learn to tolerate—and even enjoy—the process.

How to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth:

1. Choose the Right Tools: Use a pet-specific toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste (never human toothpaste—it’s toxic to pets).
2. Start Slowly: Let your pet sniff and taste the toothpaste. Begin by gently touching their teeth and gums with your finger before introducing the brush.
3. Keep It Short: Start with 30 seconds and gradually build up to two minutes.
4. Aim for Daily Brushing: If daily isn’t possible, aim for several times a week.

Positive reinforcement, like treats or playtime afterward, can help create a positive association with brushing.

Alternatives When Brushing Isn’t Possible

If your pet isn’t a fan of brushing, don’t worry—there are other ways to support oral hygiene:

• Dental Chews: These help reduce plaque while giving your pet something tasty to chew.
• Water Additives: These dissolve in your pet’s water bowl and help combat bacteria.
• Dental Toys: Designed to massage gums and scrape plaque as your pet plays.
• Prescription Dental Diets: Some pet foods are formulated to help reduce tartar.

These alternatives work best when combined with periodic professional dental care.

Professional Dental Cleanings

Even with great home care, most pets need professional cleanings. These procedures involve scaling below the gum line, polishing the teeth, and checking for hidden issues like loose teeth or root infections.

At Fetch A Vet, we know that vet visits can be stressful and time-consuming—especially when it comes to dental care. That’s why we bring comprehensive mobile veterinary services straight to your home, including dental exams, cleanings, and guidance on daily care.

Make Dental Health Part of Your Routine

Taking care of your pet’s teeth isn’t just about avoiding bad breath—it’s a key part of their overall health. Establishing a dental routine early in life can help your pet stay happy, pain-free, and energetic for years to come.

Ready to take the stress out of dental care? Fetch A Vet brings professional pet dental services right to your doorstep. Visit Fetch A Vet or call (843) 580-6209 to schedule an in-home exam and give your pet the sparkling smile they deserve—without the hassle of a clinic visit.