80% of dogs and 70% of cats suffer from some degree of dental disease by age three. Dental disease causes chronic pain, infections and can even damage the heart, kidneys and liver. Daily tooth brushing is the most effective way to prevent these problems — and it is easier than you think.
Why Daily?
Plaque — a soft layer of bacteria — begins forming on tooth surfaces within 6–8 hours of cleaning. Within just 24 hours, plaque hardens into tartar that can no longer be removed by brushing. This is why daily brushing is critical: it breaks the cycle before plaque hardens. Studies show daily brushing reduces plaque buildup by 40–70%. Brushing every other day is only about half as effective.
How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth
Always use toothpaste made for pets — never human toothpaste, which may contain xylitol (extremely toxic to dogs) and fluoride. Pet toothpaste is safe to swallow and comes in meat and fish flavors. A soft children's toothbrush or finger brush works best. Lift the lip and brush at a 45-degree angle to the gumline using circular motions. First learn to brush the outer surfaces, and if your pet allows, you can also try brushing the inner surfaces. The molars in particular should be cleaned thoroughly. 1–2 minutes is enough.
Getting Your Pet Used to Brushing
Start slowly. During the first week, get your pet used to mouth handling by touching the lips and teeth with your finger. In the second week, let your pet taste the toothpaste from your finger and rub some on the front teeth. In the third week, introduce the brush and brush a few teeth. Gradually expand the area. Always reward afterward. Never force — keep sessions short and positive. Starting as a puppy is easiest, but adult animals can learn too.
Signs of Dental Disease
Bad breath (this is not normal!), red or swollen gums, visible tartar, dropping food while eating, chewing on one side only, drooling, facial swelling, reluctance to have the head touched, behavioral changes or weight loss. Remember that animals hide pain — many seriously ill pets continue eating normally. Owners often report dramatic behavioral improvement after dental treatment.
Professional Dental Cleaning
Even with daily brushing, professional dental cleaning under general anesthesia is needed periodically. During professional cleaning we can treat areas below the gumline, take dental X-rays (up to 60% of dental disease is hidden below the gumline) and examine every tooth. General anesthesia is essential for safe and thorough cleaning. So-called "anesthesia-free dental cleaning" is purely cosmetic — it does not address disease below the gumline and gives a false sense of security.
#BrushChamp — Do You Brush Every Day?
At Eläinklinikka Saari we value owners who commit to daily tooth brushing. If you brush your pet's teeth every day, let us know — dedicated brushers receive the #BrushChamp medal! Contact us at the clinic or by email: info@saarivet.fi.