Dental health is easy to overlook because dogs and cats often continue eating even when their mouth is uncomfortable. Plaque can build up gradually, harden into tartar and contribute to painful gum disease, while broken teeth, tooth resorption and infections can also cause significant discomfort.
Regular home care and veterinary checks are the best combination. The PDSA describes dental disease as a common and painful condition in dogs, and Cats Protection gives similar advice for cats.
What are plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a soft film made up of bacteria, saliva and food debris. If it is not removed, it can mineralise into hard tartar. Tartar cannot be brushed away easily at home and can irritate the gums, contributing to inflammation and periodontal disease.
Signs of dental problems
Dogs and cats may hide mouth pain surprisingly well. Watch for:
- bad breath that is stronger than usual;
- red, swollen or bleeding gums;
- visible yellow or brown tartar;
- drooling;
- dropping food;
- chewing on one side;
- pawing at the mouth;
- reduced appetite or weight loss;
- swelling around the face or jaw;
- less grooming in cats.
1. Tooth brushing is the gold-standard home habit
Brushing removes plaque before it hardens into tartar. Pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste are designed to be swallowed safely. Never use human toothpaste, as some ingredients are unsuitable for pets.
Start slowly. Let your pet lick a small amount of pet toothpaste, then gradually get them comfortable with you touching the lips and teeth before introducing a brush.
2. Build the habit gradually
Trying to clean every tooth on day one often makes pets resist the process. Short, positive sessions are more effective.
Begin when your pet is relaxed, reward cooperation and stop before they become frustrated. Younger pets can learn the routine early, but older pets can also adapt with patience.
3. Do not brush a painful mouth
If gums are bleeding, the mouth looks sore, a tooth is broken or your pet resists because they appear painful, stop and speak to your vet. Brushing an already painful mouth can make discomfort worse and create a negative association.
4. Dental chews and products can complement brushing
Dental chews, gels, water additives and other products may help reduce plaque or freshen breath, but they vary in effectiveness and should not replace brushing or veterinary treatment.
Choose products appropriate for your pet’s size and species. Supervise chewing and avoid very hard items that can fracture teeth.
You can browse our Dental Care collection for everyday oral-care products.
5. Check the mouth regularly
A quick weekly look can help you spot changes early. Lift the lip gently and check the visible teeth and gum line. You do not need to force the mouth open widely.
Look for tartar, redness, swelling, broken teeth or unusual growths. If your pet strongly resists, do not risk being bitten.
6. Bad breath is not always “normal pet breath”
Persistent bad breath can be a sign of dental disease. It can also occasionally be associated with other medical problems. If breath changes suddenly or becomes very strong, mention it to your vet.
7. Cats need dental care too
Cats can develop gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth resorption. Cats Protection recommends gradual training with cat-specific toothpaste and a suitable toothbrush. Cats are often subtle when they are in pain, so changes in eating or grooming can be important clues.
Our Cat Wellness collection includes broader everyday support alongside oral-care products.
8. Professional cleaning is different from home brushing
Once tartar has built up significantly, home brushing cannot remove it. A vet may recommend a dental procedure under anaesthetic so the teeth can be examined and cleaned properly, including below the gum line where disease may be hidden.
9. Avoid using cosmetic freshening as a substitute for care
A product that makes breath smell better does not necessarily address plaque, gum disease or a painful tooth. Use freshening products only as part of a wider dental routine.
When should you contact a vet?
Arrange a veterinary check if you see bleeding gums, a broken or loose tooth, facial swelling, difficulty eating, significant tartar, mouth pain, persistent drooling, reduced appetite or strong ongoing bad breath.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I brush my pet’s teeth?
Daily brushing provides the strongest plaque control, although any regular routine is better than doing nothing. Follow veterinary advice for your individual pet.
Can I use a human toothbrush?
A soft small brush may sometimes be suitable, but pet-specific brushes are often easier to use. The most important rule is to use pet-safe toothpaste rather than human toothpaste.
Do dry biscuits clean teeth?
Ordinary dry food should not be relied on as a substitute for dental care. Some specially formulated dental diets may help, but brushing and veterinary checks remain important.
My pet still eats normally. Can their teeth still hurt?
Yes. Dogs and cats often continue eating despite dental pain, which is why regular mouth checks are valuable.
Related guides
For pets that need wider day-to-day support, explore our Dog Wellness and Cat Wellness collections.
This article is general pet-care information and does not replace veterinary dental assessment.