Should You Brush Your Pet’s Teeth Every Day?

When it comes to caring for your dog or cat, you probably think about healthy food, routine checkups, and regular exercise—but what about their teeth? Just like humans, pets benefit from daily dental care. And yes, that includes brushing their teeth every single day.

Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in pets, affecting up to 80% of dogs and 70% of cats by age three. Many pet owners are surprised to learn that tartar, plaque, and bacteria can build up quickly in a pet’s mouth, leading to gingivitis, infections, tooth loss, and even organ problems. Daily brushing helps prevent these complications and keeps your pet more comfortable long-term.

Think of it this way: if you didn’t brush your own teeth every day, your breath would suffer, your gums might bleed, and you'd eventually develop cavities or worse. The same goes for your furry friend. Their teeth may look small, but the risk of dental disease is just as real.

Neglecting dental hygiene can affect your pet’s entire body. Bacteria from the mouth can enter the bloodstream, potentially impacting the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why maintaining oral health is about more than just fresh breath—it’s about protecting their whole body.

Daily brushing removes plaque before it hardens into tartar, which is much more difficult to get rid of without professional cleanings. Using a toothbrush designed for pets and a vet-approved toothpaste, you can gently clean along the gumline and help keep their mouth healthy. It only takes a minute or two each day, but the results can make a huge difference in your pet’s overall quality of life.

We understand that brushing your pet’s teeth every day may sound overwhelming at first, especially if your pet isn’t used to the process. The key is to start slowly, offer praise and rewards, and make it a part of their daily routine—just like feeding or going for a walk. Over time, most pets become more tolerant, and some may even enjoy the attention.

While there are other ways to support oral health, such as dental chews or special diets, nothing replaces the benefits of brushing. Even pets who receive professional cleanings at the vet still need daily care at home to maintain the results. Skipping too many days can quickly lead to the return of plaque and bacteria.

If you’re not sure how to get started or your pet already has signs of dental disease, such as bad breath, red or swollen gums, or reluctance to eat, it’s a good idea to schedule a dental checkup. At Express Vets, we can assess your pet’s oral health and guide you through the best brushing techniques, products, and other options to keep their mouth in great shape.

Taking a few minutes each day to brush your pet’s teeth is one of the simplest and most impactful things you can do for their long-term health. With consistency, patience, and the right tools, you can protect your pet from painful dental issues and give them a happier, healthier life.

Your pet’s smile matters! Visit Express Vets to schedule a dental checkup or speak with our team about how to start a brushing routine at home. Let’s keep those tails wagging and teeth sparkling!