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How to Brush Your Pet's Teeth

General information on caring for your pet's teeth -- not a substitute for veterinary advice.

  1. Use pet-specific toothbrushes and toothpaste

    Human toothpaste can contain ingredients like xylitol or fluoride that are harmful to pets, so it should never be used -- always use a toothbrush and toothpaste made specifically for pets. Pet toothpaste is formulated to be reasonably safe if swallowed and often comes in flavors pets enjoy, like meat.

  2. Introduce brushing gradually

    Start by putting a small amount of toothpaste on a finger or piece of gauze and gently touching the mouth and teeth, to reduce resistance before moving on to a toothbrush. Keep sessions short each time, and follow up with praise or a treat to build a positive association.

  3. Alternatives when brushing isn't possible

    If a pet strongly resists brushing, supportive products like dental chews, tartar-control food, or oral sprays can help. These alternatives aren't as effective as brushing, though, so it's best to combine them with brushing whenever possible.

  4. How neglected tartar and gum disease affect overall health

    Leaving tartar and periodontal disease unaddressed is known to worsen gum inflammation and bad breath, and can allow bacteria to spread through the bloodstream and affect other organs, including the heart and kidneys. Regular dental care is part of managing your pet's overall health, not just oral health.

  5. How often to brush

    Daily brushing is ideally the most effective, but brushing consistently at least two to three times a week also helps slow tartar buildup.

  6. A note of caution

    This is general care guidance and not a substitute for a veterinary diagnosis. If your pet already has significant tartar buildup, bleeding gums, or persistent bad breath, professional treatment such as a dental cleaning may be needed -- talk to your veterinarian.

Consistency Is the Key to Dental Care

Once tartar builds up, it's difficult to remove through brushing alone, so preventing it from forming in the first place through consistent care is the most effective approach to dental health.

General information, not veterinary advice

This page offers general, practical guidance on pet dental care and is not a substitute for a professional veterinary evaluation. If you notice bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, loose teeth, or your pet resisting food, consult a veterinarian rather than relying on home care alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it okay to use a small amount of human toothpaste?

Human toothpaste can contain ingredients like xylitol that are harmful to pets, so it's safest to avoid it entirely, even in small amounts. Always use toothpaste made specifically for pets.

Are dental chews enough if brushing isn't possible at all?

Dental chews and tartar-control food can help to some degree, but they aren't as effective as brushing. Combining them with brushing whenever possible gives the best results.