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Dog dental care

Here you'll find lots of resources designed to keep your dog's teeth healthy and strong.

Four stages of dental disease in dogs

Four stages of dental disease in dogs

Discover the four stages of dental disease in pets and how to treat each stage effectively

Gingivitis in dogs

Gingivitis in dogs

Expert info from our vets on spotting, treating, and preventing gingivitis in dogs

How to brush your dog's teeth

How to brush your dog's teeth

Learn step-by-step how to brush your dog's teeth and keep their smile healthy

Do's and don'ts of dog dental care

Do's and don'ts of dog dental care

Keep your dog's teeth healthy and prevent gum disease with these essential do's and don'ts

How to get rid of bad breath in dogs

How to get rid of bad breath in dogs

Find out what causes bad breath in dogs and how to get rid of it from our expert vets

Step-by-step guide to dental treatment in dogs

Step-by-step guide to dental treatment in dogs

Our vet explains the step-by-step process of dog dental treatment, from consultation to recovery

Video — How to brush your dog's teeth

Watch our video for a quick lesson on brushing your dog's teeth. Brushing helps prevent dental disease, and ideally you should begin when they're puppies. Our vet recommends starting slow, gently petting your dog's face and lips to get them used to being touched. Once comfortable, you can introduce a finger brush with pet-safe toothpaste.

Infographics

Check out our dental infographics for dogs, showing tooth anatomy, common issues, and tips to keep their teeth healthy

Signs of dental disease

Signs of dental disease

Find out all the signs that might mean your dog has dental disease

Dental chart for dogs

Dental chart for dogs

Understand your dog’s dental anatomy to ensure their teeth and gums stay healthy

Behind the scenes of a dental treatment

Behind the scenes of a dental treatment

From consultations to home care, learn about all the steps of a dental treatment

Q&A on dog dental care

For more questions, read our advice guides or contact your local vet

Why does my dog need a scale and polish?

Dogs often accumulate plaque and tartar on their teeth, leading to gum disease and tooth loss. A scale and polish removes this buildup, preventing pain and serious health issues. Regular cleanings also help avoid more invasive procedures like tooth extractions, improving your cat's overall health and quality of life. Even older cats can really benefit; from this routine care.

How often does my dog need a dental check?

Dogs, especially as they age, are prone to dental disease. To catch issues early, you should have a check-up every six months. It's also important to check their mouth yourself regularly. Make these home checks a positive experience for your dog to keep them relaxed. Regular monitoring helps maintain your dog's dental health and catch any problems before they become serious.

What are the signs of dental pain in dogs?

Dogs are masters at hiding discomfort, making it tough to spot dental issues. However, there are some signs you can look out for. If your dog is drooling, has a decreased appetite, or is sick a lot, they might be experiencing dental pain. Other indicators include swollen and bleeding gums and bad breath. 

How long does a full scale and polish take?

Cleaning a dog's teeth thoroughly typically involves a procedure that lasts about 15-30 minutes. However, the entire process, including anaesthesia, setup, examination, and recovery, takes far longer than this, meaning it's likely your dog will be in practice for much of the day. Generally, you'll drop off your dog in the morning and pick them up in the afternoon.