Most dogs and cats show signs of dental disease by age three, but daily home care can slow it dramatically. Brushing your pet’s teeth, along with vet-approved dental products and regular checkups, helps protect against pain and infection. The team at Deer Lake Animal Hospital in Burnaby can help you build a simple routine that works.
Why dental health matters more than you might think
Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in pets, and it is about far more than bad breath. When plaque hardens into tartar and builds up under the gumline, it causes inflammation, pain, and infection that can affect the whole body over time. Because pets are good at hiding mouth discomfort, many keep eating normally even when their teeth hurt, which is why prevention and routine checks matter so much.
Signs of dental trouble to watch for
Between checkups, you are your pet’s best monitor. Signs worth raising with your veterinarian include persistent bad breath, yellow or brown buildup on the teeth, red or swollen gums, bleeding while chewing, drooling, dropping food, pawing at the mouth, or a new reluctance to play with toys. A change in how your pet eats can be an early clue that something is uncomfortable.
How to brush your pet at home
Toothbrushing is the single most effective home habit, and most pets can learn to accept it with patience. Start slowly by letting your pet taste a pet-safe toothpaste, never human toothpaste, which can be harmful. Over several days, progress to gently rubbing the teeth with a finger or soft pet toothbrush, then to short brushing sessions focused on the outer surfaces where tartar collects.
Keep sessions brief and positive, end with praise or a treat, and aim for daily if you can, since plaque begins to harden within a couple of days. Consistency matters more than perfection, and even a good routine a few times a week is far better than none.
Beyond brushing: diets, chews, and additives
Brushing works best alongside other tools. Veterinary dental diets are designed to reduce plaque, and certain dental chews and water additives can help too. The key is choosing products that are genuinely effective and safe, since some popular chews are hard enough to fracture teeth. Our pet care service team can point you to options proven to work and right for your pet’s size and chewing style.
Why home care does not replace professional checkups
Home care slows dental disease but cannot remove tartar that has already hardened or clean below the gumline, where most serious problems begin. Regular dental checks through our wellness services let your veterinarian catch trouble early, and when a professional cleaning is needed, it is done thoroughly and safely. Think of home care and professional care as partners, each doing a job the other cannot.
If your pet is showing signs of pain or infection, our medical services team can assess the mouth and recommend the right next step rather than leaving discomfort to worsen.
Starting young, and helping older pets
The easiest time to build a dental routine is when a pet is young, since puppies and kittens adapt quickly. That said, it is never too late. Older pets can also learn to accept brushing with gentle, gradual steps, and they often benefit the most because years of buildup put them at higher risk. Whatever your pet’s age, starting today protects the years ahead.
Small habits that protect your pet’s teeth
Beyond brushing, a few everyday choices support a healthy mouth. Offer safe chew toys that flex rather than rock-hard items that can crack a tooth, avoid sugary treats, and provide fresh water at all times. Lifting your pet’s lip for a quick look once a week helps you spot tartar, redness, or a broken tooth early, and it keeps your pet comfortable with having their mouth handled.
Consistency is what makes these habits work. Tie toothbrushing to an existing routine, such as after an evening walk, so it becomes automatic, and keep sessions short and rewarding. If you ever notice your pet chewing on one side, turning away from hard food, or developing a sudden odour, mention it promptly, since early attention usually means simpler, more comfortable care.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I brush my pet’s teeth?
Daily is ideal, because plaque starts to harden within a couple of days. If daily is not realistic, several times a week still provides real benefit. Consistency matters more than any single session.
Can I use human toothpaste on my dog or cat?
No. Human toothpaste can contain ingredients that are unsafe for pets to swallow. Always use a toothpaste made for pets, which is designed to be swallowed and usually comes in flavours pets enjoy.
My pet will not let me brush. What can I do?
Go slower and build up over days or weeks, pairing each step with praise and treats. If brushing is not possible, ask your veterinary team about effective dental diets, chews, and additives as a backup.
Are dental chews enough on their own?
They help but do not replace brushing or professional care. Choose vet-recommended chews, and avoid very hard items that can crack teeth. They work best as one part of a complete routine.
Does my pet still need professional cleanings if I brush?
Yes. Brushing slows buildup but cannot clean below the gumline or remove hardened tartar. Regular checkups let your veterinarian decide when a professional cleaning is needed.