A Guide to Keeping Your Pet's Smile Healthy

While we celebrate love and culture this month, let’s show extra love to our furry friends by focusing on something many pet parents overlook: dental health. Most issues aren't solved by brushing alone. 

Just like humans, pets need regular dental care to stay healthy and comfortable. Dental disease is one of the most common health problems in dogs and cats, affecting an estimated 80 percent of pets over the age of three according to the American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC).

The good news? Most dental issues are preventable with proper care and early intervention.

Why Dental Health Matters for Pets

Poor dental health is not just about bad breath. Untreated dental disease can lead to:

• Pain and discomfort
• Tooth loss
• Infections
• Difficulty eating
• Behavioral changes
• Damage to vital organs

Bottom line: Dental care directly impacts your pet’s comfort, behavior, and long-term health.

Warning Signs of Gum Disease (Gingivitis & Periodontal Disease)

Gum disease begins with plaque and tartar buildup that irritates the gums. Over time, it can progress into periodontal disease, which affects the bone and tissues that support the teeth.

Because pets instinctively hide pain, symptoms may be subtle at first.

Watch for:

• Persistent bad breath
• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Yellow or brown tartar buildup
• Loose or missing teeth
• Dropping food while eating
• Chewing on one side of the mouth
• Excessive drooling
• Facial swelling (advanced cases)
• Reluctance to eat hard food

  

According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), periodontal disease often develops below the gumline, where damage cannot be seen without a professional dental exam.

What Happens If Gum Disease Is Left Unaddressed

When untreated, gum disease does more than affect the mouth.

Oral Damage

• Destruction of bone and ligament that hold teeth in place
• Painful abscesses and infection
• Teeth loosening or falling out

Jaw Weakening

Advanced periodontal disease can weaken the jawbone and, in severe cases, increase fracture risk.

Systemic Health Risks

Bacteria from infected gums can enter the bloodstream and affect major organs, including:

• Heart
• Kidneys
• Liver

The AVDC and AAHA both note that chronic dental infection may contribute to systemic inflammation and organ complications, especially in senior pets.

Dental disease progresses quietly. By the time pets show obvious pain, significant damage may already have occurred.

Early detection truly matters.

How to Prevent Dental Problems in Pets

Prevention is always easier and less expensive than treatment.

1. Brush Your Pet’s Teeth Regularly

• Daily is ideal, but even 2 to 3 times per week helps
• Use pet-specific toothpaste only
• Introduce brushing gradually with positive reinforcement
• Use a pet toothbrush or finger brush

  

Brushing remains the most effective at-home prevention method.

2. Offer Dental Chews, Treats, and other natural ingredients that work together

• Help reduce plaque between brushings
• Choose size-appropriate products
• Avoid overly hard items that may crack teeth

Dental chews support oral health but do not replace brushing.

3. Feed a High-Quality Diet

• Proper nutrition supports overall and oral health
• Avoid sugary treats and low-quality fillers

4. Provide Safe Dental Toys

• Rubber toys with ridges can massage gums
• Rope toys may help reduce surface plaque
• Always supervise chewing
• Replace damaged toys immediately

5. Consider Dental Water Additives or Gels

• Can help reduce bacteria in the mouth
• Enzyme-based products may support plaque control
• These should supplement, not replace, brushing and veterinary care

6. Don’t completely opt out on Veterinary Dental Cleanings

Even with excellent home care, some pets require professional dental cleanings.

• Cleanings remove tartar below the gumline
• Procedures are performed under anesthesia for safety and thoroughness
• Frequency depends on age, breed, and dental health

Your veterinarian can assess your pet’s individual needs.

Dental Health by Life Stage

Puppies & Kittens

• Begin mouth handling early
• Introduce brushing during teething
• Provide safe chew toys
• Include dental checks in routine vet visits

  

Adult Pets (1–7 Years)

• Maintain consistent brushing routine
• Monitor for early signs of gum disease
• Many pets need their first professional cleaning during this stage

  

Senior Pets (7+ Years)

• Dental disease becomes more common
• More frequent monitoring may be necessary
• Oral pain can affect appetite and overall health

  

Take the Pet Dental Health Challenge

This February, commit to improving your pet’s oral care.

Week 1: Introduce tooth brushing and make it positive
Week 2: Brush at least 1 time this week
Week 3: Add a dental chew or toy to the routine
Week 4: Schedule a veterinary checkup if there are signs of dental disease or an emergency

Small steps now prevent major problems later.

We’re Here to Help

Taking care of your pet’s teeth does not have to feel overwhelming.

Stop by Youngbloods Animal Care Center and Massage to learn about:

• Dental products suited for your pet
• How to get started with dental hygiene 
• Nutrition that supports oral health
• Warning signs to watch for

Let’s work together to keep your pet’s smile healthy and bright all year long.

Have questions? Visit us in store or youngbloodanimalmassage.com. Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help.

Sources

American Veterinary Dental College (AVDC)
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Dental Care Guidelines
PetMD Veterinary Health Resources
American Humane Society Pet Dental Education