February is Pet Dental Health Month, which makes it the perfect time to check in on your pet’s smile. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in adult dogs and cats, and it doesn’t just cause bad breath. Left unchecked, dental disease can lead to discomfort, tooth loss, and even affect your pet’s overall health.
If this is your first time learning about the importance of pet dental care, don’t worry! A little prevention goes a long way and healthy habits can be easy to build.
Here’s how to keep those tails wagging and teeth sparkling:
- Schedule professional anesthesia-free pet dental cleanings every 6 months – start here if your pet is over 1 year old and hasn’t had their teeth cleaned professionally.
- Brush your pet’s teeth regularly at home with toothpaste formulated for pets (even 2–3 times a week helps!)
- Brush your pet’s teeth regularly at home with toothpaste formulated for pets (even 2–3 times a week helps!)
- Use dental-friendly treats, toys, or chews designed for dogs or cats
- Try a vet-approved water additive for extra support
- Keep up with annual veterinary checkups
- If your pet is under 1 year old, HealthySmiles offers a Polish & Play service for puppies and kittens to help make dental care fun for your tiny BFF from the very beginning. They also provide pet parents with tips on how to get started with at-home care, too!
Dental disease builds slowly and often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. Since pets are pros at hiding discomfort, staying ahead with simple, consistent care makes all the difference.
Dental disease builds slowly and often goes unnoticed until it’s advanced. Since pets are pros at hiding discomfort, staying ahead with simple, consistent care makes all the difference.
Good Pet Dental Health Is Built Through Daily Habits
Just like with people, making sure your pet’s teeth are healthy requires consistent care over time. A well-rounded dental routine typically includes regular veterinary exams, professional teeth cleanings, and supportive at-home habits.
Daily or frequent brushing is one of the most effective ways to reduce plaque buildup, though many pet parents find it challenging to maintain. Pet dental treats, chews, and toys can also help support oral health while making dental care fun for pets. When used together, these at-home habits help keep teeth cleaner and breath fresher between professional pet dental cleanings.
In addition to building an at-home dental care routine for your dog or cat and maintaining annual veterinary checkups, anesthesia-free pet dental cleanings like those offered at HealthySmiles Pet Dental Spas can also play a supportive role in your pet’s overall wellness routine. These cleanings are designed to help maintain cleaner teeth and healthier gums between veterinary visits, encouraging consistency and early attention to oral care. They are not a replacement for veterinary dental procedures, especially when dental disease is advanced, but they are a helpful tool if you’re a pet parent who is looking to stay proactive about your BFF’s overall dental health and wellness.
Why Preventive Pet Dental Care Matters
Preventive care focuses on maintaining oral health before bigger issues develop. This approach is typically easier on pets, less stressful for pet parents, and more affordable than treating advanced dental problems later on.
Building dental habits early, especially for younger pets, helps normalize oral care and makes it easier to stay consistent as they age. For adult and senior pets, improving dental routines can still make a meaningful difference in comfort and quality of life.
Signs Your Pet’s Dental Health May Need Attention
Even with good habits in place, it’s important to watch for subtle changes. Pets can hide their discomfort well, so small signs can be easy to miss. Keep an eye out for these visible signs of pet dental disease:
- Persistent bad breath (not just morning breath)
- Yellow or brown buildup on the teeth
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Excessive drooling or pawing at the mouth
- Changes in eating or chewing behavior
- Less interest in toys or chews
If you notice any of these, a dental exam is the best next step for your pet.
Pet Dental Health Month Is The Perfect Time to Check In
Pet Dental Health Month is a great reminder to take a closer look at your pet’s teeth and daily routine. Whether that means starting a teeth brushing habit, refreshing your stash of dental treats, or scheduling a professional pet dental cleaning, small steps can make a big difference over time.
HealthySmiles Pet Dental is here to help. We offer gentle, anesthesia-free teeth cleanings for dogs and cats in a calm, spa-like setting designed to keep pets relaxed and pet parents at ease. Our goal is to make dental care feel less stressful and more accessible, so you can keep your pet’s smile healthy and their breath fresh all year long.
Guest Post by Kelli Harvey
Director of Marketing
HealthySmiles Pet Dental
