Dog Dentistry

How many teeth do dogs have?

Adult dogs typically have 42 teeth, though some may have variations in tooth count due to genetic anomalies. As puppies, they begin with 28 baby teeth, which they gradually lose. By six months of age, all their adult teeth have emerged, replacing the temporary set.

What kind of dental diseases do dogs tend to get?

The most common dental issue in dogs is a broken tooth, often caused by chewing. When a tooth fractures, the exposed pulp can lead to an abscess, causing pain and potential infection. Periodontal disease is another frequent concern, as dogs don't brush their teeth regularly like humans do. This allows bacteria to accumulate in the periodontal space—the area between the tooth and the surrounding bone—leading to infection, bone loss, tooth mobility, and discomfort. Additionally, tumors or growths can develop in the mouth. While some are benign and linked to periodontal disease and inflammation, others can be cancerous and require further evaluation

How do I keep my dog's teeth healthy?

The best way to maintain your dog's dental health is daily tooth brushing. Plaque naturally builds up throughout the day, and within 24 hours, it hardens into calculus. By brushing your dog's teeth every day, you disrupt this cycle, preventing plaque from turning into stubborn tartar and reducing the risk of dental issues.

How can I tell if my dog has dental disease?

One of the earliest signs of dental issues in dogs is bad breath—while "doggy breath" is often joked about, persistent odor is not normal. Other warning signs include red or swollen gums, fractured teeth, and unusual growths. In advanced stages, more serious symptoms like difficulty chewing or excessive drooling may appear, signaling a need for attention.

What are the benefits and risks of having my dog's teeth cleaned?

While dental cleanings do require anesthesia, the risks are minimal compared to the benefits, and we'd be happy to discuss any concerns you may have. To ensure safety, we closely monitor your pet using a multi-parameter system, with a dedicated technician overseeing their well-being. They remain comfortable on a heated water bed, and because dental procedures don’t require deep anesthesia, they only need to be lightly sedated to stay still—nothing we do is overly painful.

The real advantage of professional cleanings is the ability to perform X-rays and a thorough oral exam, allowing us to detect hidden issues beneath the gum line. Many abscesses and infections appear completely normal on the surface, making routine dental care essential for identifying and addressing problems your pet can’t communicate. Regular dentistry helps catch these concerns early, preventing unnecessary pain and ensuring their long-term health.

Do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

Brushing your pet's teeth is essential for their overall health. It's the most effective way to prevent periodontal disease - a bacterial infection that affects the structures supporting the teeth. When these areas become infected, it can lead to loose, painful teeth and serious oral discomfort. By maintaining good dental hygiene, you’re helping ensure your pet stays happy, healthy, and pain-free.

How often do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

Brushing daily is key - even if it’s not the answer everyone wants to hear. Plaque starts forming constantly, and within just 24 hours, it can harden into tough, stubborn calculus. By brushing every day, you’re clearing away plaque before it has a chance to settle and harden, helping to maintain a cleaner, healthier mouth.

What supplies do I need to brush my pet's teeth?

To get started with brushing your pet’s teeth, you’ll need a few key supplies. First and foremost: a toothbrush that fits your pet’s mouth. For a dog the size of a Labrador, a medium-sized brush works well. It’s best to choose something inexpensive since pets often chew on the bristles, meaning you’ll likely need to replace it fairly often.

Many pet owners also prefer using a finger brush, or even just a soft washcloth, especially if that feels more comfortable for them and their pet.

You’ll also need a pet-specific toothpaste - never use human toothpaste, as it contains fluoride and other ingredients not meant to be swallowed. Pets will almost certainly try to swallow the toothpaste, so it’s important to use one that’s safe and appealing to them. For example, this CET brand poultry-flavored option tends to be a hit. The key is finding a flavor your pet enjoys to make brushing a more pleasant experience for both of you

How do I brush my pet's teeth?

Start by putting a bit of pet-safe toothpaste on the toothbrush and simply let your pet lick it off. This step helps create a positive association - they’ll start to enjoy the taste and get familiar with the toothbrush. Try doing this daily for a week or two, until your pet begins to look forward to “brush time” and may even remind you it’s time for their dental treat!

Once your pet is comfortable and excited about the toothbrush, begin by gently brushing the front incisors. Gradually, as they become more relaxed, you can slowly work your way further back along the teeth.

Take it at your pet’s pace - don’t force the process. If they show signs of discomfort, pause and slow things down to match their comfort level. And when you do start brushing more thoroughly, focus most of your effort on the cheek-facing sides of the teeth, since that’s where plaque and tartar build up the most - not the tongue side.

What are the signs of dental problems in my pet?

Bad breath and red gums are clear warning signs of dental trouble. Contrary to popular belief, your dog's breath shouldn’t be stinky - so if it is, it’s worth taking a closer look. Other red flags include swollen or bleeding gums, unusual growths or masses around the gum line, drooling, and difficulty chewing.

You might also notice subtle signs, like your pet chewing only on one side of their mouth or favoring one side when eating kibble. These behaviors can indicate mouth pain that needs attention.

Is a professional dental cleaning necessary?

Daily brushing is incredibly helpful, but it doesn’t always reach below the gum line where tartar can build up. That’s where professional dental cleanings at your veterinarian’s office come in. 

These cleanings include full-mouth X-rays, careful probing of the gum pockets, and thorough scaling and polishing - especially beneath the gum line - to remove tartar and help slow the progression of periodontal disease.

So even if you brush your dog’s teeth every day, it’s still a good idea to schedule regular professional cleanings under anesthesia for a truly deep clean and better long-term dental health.

What if I can't brush my pet's teeth?

Some pets simply won’t tolerate toothbrushing - and that’s perfectly okay. In those cases, there are approved alternatives that can still support oral health. For example, products like Greenies are backed by the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) and have been shown to help reduce tartar and bad breath.

I recommend checking the VOHC website for a full list of approved options. When shopping, look for the VOHC seal of approval on dental chews, treats, or other products - that’s your sign they’ve been tested for effectiveness. There are also water additives and other tools available to help manage plaque buildup.

That said, daily brushing remains the gold standard, especially for cleaning the canines and front incisors - areas that chews might not reach effectively. But any effort you can make toward your pet’s dental care is a step in the right direction!

If you have any further questions about how to brush your pet's teeth, feel free to contact us at Covington Veterinary Hospital.