Dog Teeth Brushing: Why Grooming Alone Isn’t Enough
- Petopia
- Sep 9
- 3 min read
One of the most common questions I hear at the salon is, “Can you brush my dog’s teeth during grooming?” The answer is yes — but with an important caveat: brushing once every six weeks during a grooming appointment is better than nothing, but it’s not nearly enough to keep your dog’s teeth and gums truly healthy.
Why Dental Care Matters
Dental health affects so much more than just fresh breath. Plaque that’s left on teeth hardens into tartar in just a few days. Over time, that tartar builds up, leading to gum disease, pain, tooth loss, and even infections that can affect the heart and kidneys. Regular care at home is the best way to prevent dental problems — and it’s one of the most overlooked parts of dog health.
Why Mouth Handling Matters Beyond Brushing
Brushing your dog’s teeth does more than keep their smile fresh. Every time you gently handle their mouth, lift their lips, or touch their teeth and gums, you’re helping them get used to that kind of handling.
That comfort pays off in big ways:
Easier vet exams → your vet can check teeth, gums, and even spot lumps or sores more quickly.
Safer grooming → I can peek at teeth or check the mouth without your dog panicking.
Less stress overall → your dog learns that mouth handling is normal, not scary.
Even if you’re not brushing perfectly every day, simply practicing gentle mouth handling builds trust and makes future care easier for everyone.
How Often Should Dogs’ Teeth Be Brushed?
Ideal: Daily brushing (just like us).
Still helpful: A few times a week. Studies show brushing at least 3 times per week helps prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
Every 6 weeks (at grooming): Better than zero brushing, but not nearly enough to keep dental disease away.
So yes, if I brush your dog’s teeth at their grooming appointment, it does help — but it’s more of a “bonus” than a replacement for home care.
My Role as Your Groomer
At Petopia, I can brush your dog’s teeth during their grooming visit. I’m happy to do it, especially if it helps start or support a good dental care routine. But I’m also honest with my clients: brushing every six weeks simply won’t prevent dental disease on its own. I encourage every pet parent to add at-home brushing into their dog’s routine, even if it’s just once or twice a week. That’s where you’ll really see the benefits.
Tips for At-Home Dog Teeth Brushing
Use a dog toothbrush (sized for your pup) and toothpaste (never human toothpaste).
Start slow: let your dog lick the toothpaste first, then gradually introduce brushing.
Pick a calm time of day — after a walk or before bedtime.
Make it positive: treat and praise afterward so brushing becomes a routine, not a chore.
Consistency matters more than perfection — even brushing once or twice a week at home helps far more than every six weeks in the salon.
Extra Support for Dental Health
If daily or weekly brushing is tough, you can still support your dog’s teeth in other ways:
Dental chews that are VOHC-approved, and sized for your pup.
Water additives designed for oral health, always have fresh water available too.
Specialty dental diets as recommended by your veterinarian.
These tools aren’t a replacement for brushing, but they do help reduce plaque and tartar buildup.
Conclusion
I’m always glad to add teeth brushing during your dog’s grooming appointment, but I want to be honest: it’s not enough on its own. Daily or weekly brushing at home is the best way to protect your pup’s teeth, prevent painful dental disease, and keep their breath fresh.
At Petopia, my goal is to make grooming a positive, stress-free experience — and that includes giving you the information you need to keep your dog healthy between visits. Together, we can make sure your pup’s smile stays just as bright as their personality. 🦷
