Dog Dental Care: How to Brush Teeth and Spot Dental Disease

September 23, 2026

Most dogs will keep eating even when their mouth is uncomfortable, which is one reason dental disease can progress before owners realise there is a problem. A healthy dental routine is therefore less about waiting for bad breath and more about preventing plaque from building up in the first place.

This guide covers practical home care, what dental chews can and cannot do, and the signs that mean a veterinary dental check is more important than another product.

Why dog dental care matters

Plaque forms naturally on teeth. If it is not removed, minerals in saliva can harden it into tartar. Tartar itself is difficult to brush away and can contribute to inflammation around the gums and periodontal disease.

PDSA describes dental disease as a common and painful condition in dogs and recommends regular mouth checks and daily brushing where possible.

Signs of dental problems

persistent bad breath;
red, swollen or bleeding gums;
yellow-brown tartar on teeth;
dropping food or chewing on one side;
pawing at the mouth;
difficulty eating hard food;
loose or broken teeth;
facial swelling or obvious pain.

Dogs can continue eating despite significant dental disease, so appetite alone does not rule out pain.

How to start brushing your dog’s teeth

Use only pet-safe toothpaste. Human toothpaste can contain ingredients that are unsafe for dogs to swallow.

Let your dog taste a small amount of dog toothpaste.
Get them used to you gently touching the lips and gums.
Introduce a finger brush or soft pet toothbrush for a few seconds at a time.
Gradually build up to brushing the outer tooth surfaces along the gum line.
Reward calm behaviour and keep sessions short.

Daily brushing is ideal because plaque reforms quickly. If your dog resists strongly, do not force the mouth open or risk a bite. Ask your vet or veterinary nurse for alternatives.

Do dental chews work?

Chewing can provide mechanical abrasion, and some veterinary dental products are designed specifically to reduce plaque or tartar. However, chews are not a replacement for brushing or professional treatment where disease is already present.

Choose products appropriate to your dog’s size and chewing style, supervise use and count calories from treats within the daily diet. Very hard items can fracture teeth.

You can browse our Dog Dental Care collection for current oral-care products, including dental chews and complementary dental powders.

What about dental powders and seaweed?

Powders can be convenient for dogs that will not tolerate brushing, but they should be viewed as complementary rather than as a cure for periodontal disease. Follow the product serving instructions and check all ingredients, particularly if your dog has thyroid disease, takes medication or has dietary restrictions.

Our Dental Seaweed Powder for Dogs & Cats is one example of a complementary oral-care format.

When does a dog need a professional dental?

Once heavy tartar and gum disease are present, home brushing cannot remove deposits below the gum line. Your vet may recommend a dental procedure under general anaesthetic so the teeth can be fully examined, cleaned and treated.

Do not scrape tartar off at home with metal tools. This can damage enamel and miss disease hidden below the gums.

How often should the mouth be checked?

Have a quick look weekly at home and ask your vet to assess the mouth during routine health checks. Small breeds, older dogs and dogs with crowded teeth may need closer monitoring.