Dental disease is the most common health condition in dogs — affecting over 80% of dogs over age three. Regular teeth brushing is the single most effective preventive measure, and grooming appointments are one of the best opportunities to keep it consistent.
What Dental Disease Looks Like
Bad breath is the most obvious sign, but it’s just the beginning. Tartar buildup on teeth, red or swollen gums, loose teeth, drooling, and reluctance to eat hard food are all signs of advancing dental disease. Left untreated, bacteria from dental disease can spread to the heart, kidneys, and liver — causing systemic health problems that shorten a dog’s life.
How Grooming Appointments Support Dental Health
Many professional groomers offer teeth brushing as an add-on service. Having a professional brush your dog’s teeth at every grooming appointment — whether every 6 weeks or every 4 weeks — supplements home brushing and helps maintain gum health between vet cleanings. It also acclimates dogs to the experience, making home brushing easier.
Starting a Home Brushing Routine
Use a dog-specific toothpaste (never human toothpaste — xylitol is toxic to dogs). Start slowly: finger, then finger brush, then toothbrush. Even once every two or three days reduces tartar buildup significantly compared to no brushing at all. Consistency matters more than perfection.
Ask about teeth brushing add-ons at your next Zoomin Groomin appointment on Long Island. Call (631) 801-4801.
