Is Your Dog Due for a Dental Check-Up? Here’s Why It’s More Than Just Bad Breath

When we think about our dog’s health, we often focus on pet exercise, nutrition, or vaccinations — but what about their teeth?

Just like humans, dogs need regular dental care to stay healthy and pain-free. In fact, neglecting your dog’s oral hygiene can lead to much more than just bad breath.

Gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs, affecting up to 80% of dogs over the age of three. Left untreated, it can cause tooth loss, infections, and even impact major organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys.

In this blog, we’ll explore why dental health is critical for your dog’s overall wellbeing, how to spot signs of dental problems, and simple steps you can take to protect your pup’s pearly whites — and their long-term health.

How often does my dog need a dental check-up?

Dental disease in dogs is progressive — meaning it only gets worse without intervention. That’s why veterinarians recommend scheduling a professional dental check-up at least once a year.

For many pet owners, the easiest way to stay on top of this is by bundling it into your dog’s annual wellness visit.

Better yet, choosing an all-inclusive wellness plan ensures your dog’s dental exam is covered alongside other routine care — saving time, and helping you stay proactive about their health, all in one visit.

💡 Knose’s routine care plans come with an annual allowance for vaccinations, health, and dental check-ups (up to $100 in total per year)!

Why does my dog need a dental check-up?

It’s easy to assume that doggy breath is just part of being a dog — or that crooked teeth are nothing to worry about. But these could be early signs of dental disease, one of the most common and overlooked health issues in dogs.

Dental disease typically develops when the gums (gingivitis) or jawbone (periodontitis) become inflamed due to a buildup of bacteria.

If left untreated, it can lead to infections, tooth loss, or even impact your dog’s overall health. In some cases, swollen lymph nodes may signal that an infection is already spreading beyond the mouth.

The challenge? Dental issues often go unnoticed by pet owners — especially in younger dogs. Symptoms like bad breath, visible tartar, bleeding gums, or reluctance to chew can be subtle or mistaken for normal behaviour.

That’s why regular vet dental check-ups are so important. A trained professional can spot what you can’t — and help you prevent serious problems before they start. 

Vets recommend introducing dental care routines early in your dog’s life, so they become familiar with the process.

Even calm, cooperative dogs may feel uneasy when their mouth is examined, so early desensitisation makes future visits far less stressful.

What happens during a dog’s dental check-up?

An annual dental check-up plays a vital role in your dog’s overall health — and it’s much more than just a quick look at their teeth. Here’s what you can expect during the vet visit:

Pet Health History & Breed Considerations

The vet will begin by reviewing your dog’s general medical history and lifestyle. Certain breeds like French Bulldogs are more prone to dental problems, so this context helps guide a more tailored assessment.

Symptom Review

You’ll be asked if you’ve noticed any changes in behaviour, such as:

• Excessive drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Difficulty eating or chewing
• Foul-smelling breath

These dog behaviours can be early signs of dental disease or discomfort.

Physical & Oral Examination

The vet will carefully examine your dog’s entire head and neck, checking for swelling, lumps, or signs of pain. Inside the mouth, they’ll look for tartar buildup, inflamed gums, fractured teeth, and any obvious signs of infection.

Dental X-Rays (Radiographs)

Since two-thirds of a dog’s tooth lies below the gum line, X-rays are crucial. They help detect hidden problems such as:

• Tooth root abscesses
• Bone loss
• Fractures or impacted teeth

Radiographs are often done under general anaesthesia to ensure a thorough and safe evaluation.

Professional Cleaning (Scale & Polish)

Just like human dental care, your dog will receive a full cleaning to remove plaque and tartar — especially in areas brushing can’t reach. This procedure typically includes:

• Scaling (removal of hardened tartar)
• Polishing (to smooth enamel and prevent future buildup)

Because most dogs won’t stay still or keep their mouths open for extended periods, general anaesthetic is usually required to ensure a safe, stress-free procedure.

How to care for your dog’s dental health at home

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean at home is one of the best ways to prevent dental disease and make future vet visits easier.

Whether you’re starting with a puppy or a senior dog, here’s how to build a routine that supports their long-term health — and freshens their breath too!

1. Regular Teeth Brushing

Daily brushing is ideal, but even a few times a week can make a big difference. Use:

• A soft dog toothbrush or finger brush
• Dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste — it’s toxic for dogs)

Start slowly and reward your dog after each session. Focus on gentle, circular motions and try to lift the lips to reach the gumline.

2. Dental Wipes

If your dog doesn’t tolerate brushing (yet), dental wipes are a great alternative. These antibacterial wipes help remove plaque and bacteria with minimal fuss — perfect for busy pet parents or more sensitive pups.

3. Dental Treats and Chews

There are many treats and chews designed to support oral health. These help reduce tartar while giving your dog something to enjoy.

4. Dental Diets

Some high-quality dog foods are formulated to support dental health by reducing plaque and tartar through texture or added enzymes. Speak with your vet to see if this is a good option for your dog.

5. Start Young (But Don’t Stress If You Didn’t)

The best time to start dental care is during puppyhood when your dog is still learning new experiences. But it’s never too late — older dogs can learn too with a bit of patience and lots of praise.

🦷 Not every dog will love having their mouth handled right away. Start slow and build trust — keep sessions short and positive, and always reward your dog to make dental care a stress-free experience.

Keeping up with your dog’s dental health at home makes a big difference — both in preventing issues and making vet visits less stressful. Combine these tips with annual professional dental check-ups for best results.

Caring for your dog’s health — inside and out

Your dog’s health isn’t just about vaccinations and flea treatments — it’s about taking a whole-of-life approach that includes dental care, nutrition, regular check-ups, and preventative protection.

One of the simplest ways to stay on top of it all is with an annual pet wellness plan.

These plans ensure your dog receives consistent, vet-recommended care — from oral health and parasite prevention to routine exams and early detection of health issues.

At Knose, our Pet Care Plans are tailored with inputs from vets with Australian pets in mind. They help you manage healthcare proactively, reduce the risk of health issues, and give you greater peace of mind as a pet parent.

Give your dog the care they deserve, every step of the way!