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Preventing dental disease in dogs and cats takes more than checking the teeth you can see. Disease can develop below the gumline, so combine regular home care—especially brushing—with veterinary dental evaluations and professional treatment when needed. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says daily brushing is best; its brochure notes that pets are very likely to show early evidence of periodontal disease by age 3.
Why a quick look at the teeth can miss disease
Plaque can harden into tartar and contribute to periodontal disease, which can damage the tissues that support the teeth. Some disease develops below the gumline, where a routine look at visible teeth cannot rule it out. The AVMA’s Pet Dental Care brochure says much dental disease occurs below the gumline.
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The AVMA brochure also says pets are very likely to have early evidence of periodontal disease by age 3. That statement is not a precise prevalence percentage, and the publication year of the brochure version cited here is not established.
What to do at home
Make brushing the regular routine
The AVMA describes brushing as the single most effective action owners can take to maintain dental health. Daily brushing is best; brushing several times a week can also be effective. Use a pet-appropriate toothbrush and toothpaste, and ask your veterinarian how to introduce brushing and adapt it to your pet.
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Keep sessions calm and gradual. If your pet resists or seems uncomfortable, stop rather than forcing the mouth open and ask your veterinarian for guidance.
Ask about alternatives when brushing is difficult
Dental-specific food, oral rinses, and veterinarian-approved chews may be options to discuss with your veterinarian when brushing is not feasible. They should not be treated as equivalent replacements for brushing or for professional veterinary care; suitability depends on the individual animal.
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What veterinary dental care adds
Regular dental evaluations
The AVMA recommends that a veterinarian check a pet’s teeth at least once a year. A June 25, 2026 HelloNation release about veterinarian John Hergenrether of Hergenrether Animal Hospital in Lawton, Oklahoma, reports his recommendation for semi-annual checkups that include dental evaluations. These are distinct recommendations, not one universal schedule; your veterinarian can advise on an interval for your pet.
Cleaning and assessment below the gumline
Professional cleaning can include scaling to remove plaque and tartar, followed by polishing. Assessing disease below the gumline may require an examination under anesthesia, and dental radiographs can help evaluate tooth roots and supporting jawbone. Your veterinarian can explain which steps are appropriate for the animal and why.
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Signs that warrant a call to the veterinarian
Contact a veterinarian if you notice persistent bad breath, reduced appetite or difficulty eating, a change in chewing, drooling, dropping food, loose or broken teeth, bleeding, swelling, or changes in behavior. These signs merit assessment rather than an attempt to diagnose the cause at home.
Use caution if you inspect a painful pet’s mouth: an animal in pain may bite. If opening the mouth causes distress, stop and let the veterinary team examine it.
Quick Recap
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