Professional dental cleanings are essential for your dog’s health, but what you do at home between visits matters just as much. Daily habits can slow plaque buildup, improve your dog’s breath, and prevent the kind of dental disease that leads to pain or expensive vet procedures.
Here’s how to keep your dog’s teeth clean between appointments, and support the work we do at Royal Touch Pet Dental.
1. Brush Your Dog’s Teeth Regularly
Brushing is the most effective thing you can do at home. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush or finger brush made for pets, along with dog-safe toothpaste. Human toothpaste is not safe for dogs and can be toxic.
Aim to brush at least three times a week, but daily is even better. Go slowly, especially if your dog is new to brushing, and always reward them afterward.
2. Offer VOHC-Approved Dental Chews
Dental chews help reduce plaque and tartar through mechanical chewing. Look for products that carry the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) seal, which means they meet quality and safety standards.
Chews are not a replacement for brushing or cleanings, but they do help extend the time between appointments by keeping plaque softer and easier to remove.
3. Try Dental Wipes or Water Additives
If your dog will not tolerate brushing, dental wipes can be a great alternative. They help wipe away soft plaque before it hardens into tartar. Water additives are another easy option—just add them to your dog’s bowl to help reduce oral bacteria throughout the day.
Both are good supplements for dogs who resist brushing.
4. Feed a Dental-Friendly Diet
Some dry dog foods are specially formulated to reduce tartar. These kibble pieces are larger and have a texture that scrubs the teeth as your dog chews. Ask your vet or our team if this might be a good option for your dog’s breed, size, and age.
Avoid sugary treats or table scraps that stick to the teeth and fuel bacterial growth.
5. Provide Plenty of Safe Chew Toys
Chewing helps keep your dog’s teeth clean by scraping away soft buildup. Rubber toys, rope toys, or nylon bones made for dental health are ideal. Always supervise your dog to make sure the toy is not too hard or breaking apart.
Avoid hard bones, antlers, or anything that could crack your dog’s teeth.
6. Watch for Early Warning Signs
Even with great at-home care, it is important to keep an eye on your dog’s mouth. If you notice any of the following, it may be time to schedule their next cleaning:
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Bad breath that does not go away
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Yellow or brown buildup on teeth
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Red or bleeding gums
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Drooling or pawing at the mouth
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Difficulty chewing or eating
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Loose or missing teeth
Catching problems early keeps your pet more comfortable and prevents costly vet visits.
Partner With Royal Touch Pet Dental
At Royal Touch Pet Dental, we specialize in anesthesia-free cleanings that help maintain your dog’s oral health. Our gentle approach removes tartar, polishes the teeth, and freshens breath—all without sedation or recovery time.
By combining at-home care with regular professional cleanings, you can help your dog stay healthier, happier, and pain-free.
👉 Book your pet’s appointment here and keep their smile clean and fresh between visits.
