How to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth: A Professional Guide to Perfect Oral Health

Dental hygiene in dogs is much more than just an aesthetic concern. Clean teeth and healthy gums are essential to prevent periodontal disease, improve your pet’s quality of life, and avoid invasive or costly veterinary treatments.

In this guide, you will learn how to clean your dog's teeth step by step, which products are truly effective, and how to establish a safe routine both at home and in a professional grooming setting. All backed by the technical expertise and experience of Artero.

Why is dental cleaning important for dogs?

Just like humans, dogs accumulate bacterial plaque after every meal. If not removed, this plaque calcifies into tartar, which causes gum inflammation (gingivitis), bad breath, and, over time, tooth loss.

Additionally, bacteria can enter the bloodstream, affecting vital organs such as the heart (endocarditis), kidneys, or liver.

A good dental routine helps to:

• Prevent periodontal diseases.
• Avoid chronic bad breath.
• Maintain firm, pink gums.
• Detect lesions, tartar, or bleeding early.

Effective methods to clean your dog's teeth

1. Brushing with specific toothpaste and toothbrush

This is the method most recommended by vets and groomers. It requires progressive habituation but is the most thorough.

• Use dog-specific toothpaste. Human toothpaste can be toxic.
• Start with finger brushes or small, soft heads.
• Use gentle circular motions, focusing on molars and canines.
• Finish with a treat to create a positive association.

Artero Tip: For dogs that don’t tolerate brushing, the Artero Dips Dental Wipes are a gentle and effective alternative.

2. Dental sprays or gels

Ideal as a complement or for dogs sensitive to brushing.

• Apply the product directly to the mouth or gums.
• No rinsing or forced handling required.
• X-Mint Artero provides freshness and reduces plaque.

3. Dental treats and chew toys

They help mechanically reduce plaque. They don't replace brushing but are a useful reinforcement.

Recommended Artero products for dental hygiene

When to start and how often to clean your dog's teeth?

• From puppyhood: the sooner they get used to it, the easier it will be to maintain the routine.
• Ideal frequency: daily. At least 2 to 3 times per week for visible results.
• Veterinary check-up: at least once a year or if there are signs of bleeding or tartar.

Tips to Make the Dental Routine Easier

• Use positive reinforcement (petting or treats after cleaning).
• Keep sessions short and frequent, especially at the beginning.
• Choose a calm moment: after a walk or meal.
• Don’t force it. Adapt the technique to your dog's personality and tolerance.

Dental Hygiene as Part of Professional Grooming

At Artero, we recommend including an oral check as part of the professional grooming service. It’s the perfect moment to:

• Detect bad breath, tartar buildup, or inflamed gums.
• Apply gels like Dentix to prevent infections.
• Use Dips Dientes after grooming to complete full care.

Artero Professional Tip

“Oral health is just as important as bathing or brushing. A clean mouth means a happy and healthy dog. The key is consistency and using the right products, like the Dentix gel or Artero's Dips Dientes finger wipes. At the grooming salon, we always recommend including a dental check as part of the regular care routine.”
— Patricia Campos, Artero Creative Team

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use human toothpaste on dogs?

No. It contains xylitol or fluoride, which are toxic to them. Always use veterinary-approved products.

How often should I brush my dog’s teeth?

Ideally, every day. If not possible, at least 3 times a week.

Do dental chews replace brushing?

No. They are a helpful supplement but do not replace active cleaning with a brush or wipe.

When is a professional dental cleaning needed?

When tartar is visible, there’s inflammation or bleeding, or your dog has persistent bad breath.