This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. We only recommend products we trust and believe will be valuable to our readers.
Over 80% of dogs have some form of dental disease by age three.[1] That's not a scare tactic—it's a well-documented fact from veterinary research. And yet most dog owners in the UK don't give their pet's teeth a second thought until something goes wrong.
Here's what goes wrong: bad breath that makes you recoil, brown tartar caking the back teeth, red and swollen gums, and eventually—loose teeth, abscesses, and infections that can spread to the heart, liver, and kidneys.[2]
The good news? Dog teeth cleaning isn't complicated. A combination of regular brushing at home, maintenance from your groomer, and annual vet check-ups will keep your dog's mouth healthy and save you from emergency dental bills that can run into hundreds or even thousands of pounds.
This guide covers everything UK dog owners need to know: how to brush your dog's teeth properly, what groomers can (and can't) do, when you need a vet, and what actually works to prevent plaque and tartar building up in the first place.
Veterinary Disclaimer
This article provides general information about dog dental care for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog shows signs of dental disease—including bad breath, discoloured teeth, red gums, difficulty eating, or any behavioural changes—please consult a qualified veterinarian. Never use human toothpaste on dogs, and always follow your vet's specific recommendations for your pet's individual needs.
Bad breath isn't normal. It's one of the most common myths among dog owners—"doggy breath" is just part of owning a pet. It isn't. Persistent bad breath is usually the first sign of bacteria and plaque building up in your dog's mouth.
Lift your dog's lip and check the teeth at the back of the mouth—the large premolars and molars where tartar tends to accumulate first. You're looking for:
Dogs are masters at hiding pain. By the time they show obvious discomfort, the problem is usually serious. Watch for:
If you notice any of these signs, book a vet appointment. Don't wait for it to get worse.
Daily brushing is the gold standard. If that sounds ambitious, aim for at least three times a week—you'll still see significant benefits.[3] The key is consistency. A quick brush several times a week beats a thorough scrub once a month.
Dog-specific toothpaste only. Human toothpaste contains fluoride and often xylitol—both are toxic to dogs. Xylitol is particularly dangerous; it causes a rapid release of insulin that can lead to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure.[4] Dog toothpastes come in flavours like chicken, beef, and malt that make the whole process more appealing to your pet.
For brushes, you have two options:
The ARM & HAMMER Fresh Spectrum Coconut Dental Kit includes enzymatic toothpaste, a 360° toothbrush, and finger brush—everything you need to start a home brushing routine. The baking soda formula helps break down plaque and tartar.
Don't dive straight in with a brush. Build up gradually over a week or two:
Focus on the gum line—the point where the tooth meets the gum. This is where plaque accumulates and causes the most damage. Use small circular motions at a 45-degree angle to the teeth. You don't need to brush the inside surfaces; your dog's tongue keeps those relatively clean.
Pay extra attention to the large premolars and molars at the back, and the canine teeth (the fangs). These are the teeth most prone to tartar build-up and fractures.
Keep sessions short and positive. Two minutes is ideal, but even 30 seconds is better than nothing. Finish with praise and a small treat so your dog looks forward to next time.
Many dog groomers in the UK now offer ultrasonic teeth cleaning as an add-on service. The most common system is Emmi-Pet, a German-made ultrasonic toothbrush designed specifically for pets.
Unlike regular toothbrushes that clean through scrubbing, ultrasonic brushes use high-frequency sound waves to disrupt plaque and bacteria. The Emmi-Pet system generates up to 96 million ultrasonic waves per minute that penetrate into the gum pockets and between teeth.[5]
The big advantage? It's silent and vibration-free. There's no buzzing, no scrubbing motion, and no pressure required. You simply hold the brush head against the teeth and let the ultrasound do the work. This makes it far less stressful than traditional brushing for anxious dogs.
A groomer session typically costs between £15-30 and takes around 10-15 minutes.[6] For best results, you'll need regular sessions—usually monthly or every six weeks, depending on how quickly your dog builds up plaque.
Results vary depending on how much tartar your dog has to start with. Light plaque may soften and reduce noticeably after a few sessions. Heavier tartar that's been building for years will take longer, and some may be too firmly attached to shift without veterinary intervention.
This is crucial to understand: groomers offer maintenance, not treatment. They cannot:
If your groomer spots loose teeth, heavy tartar, bleeding gums, or anything else concerning, they should refer you to a vet. A good groomer knows their limits.
Ultrasonic cleaning works best as prevention—keeping clean teeth clean—rather than trying to reverse years of neglect. Think of it as a professional top-up between vet check-ups, not a replacement for proper veterinary dental care.
The original ultrasonic toothbrush for pets—silent, vibration-free, and used by groomers across the UK. Available for home use.
When tartar has built up significantly, or there are signs of periodontal disease, your dog needs a professional scale and polish at the vet. This is also called a "dental" or COHAT (Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment).
A proper dental clean requires general anaesthesia. There's no way around this. Here's why:
"Anaesthesia-free dentals" offered by some groomers and non-veterinary providers can only address what's visible above the gum line. They may make teeth look cleaner, but they don't treat the disease happening underneath.
Understandably, many owners worry about putting their dog under anaesthesia. The risks are real but relatively low. A major UK study by the Royal Veterinary College found that the overall mortality rate for dogs undergoing sedation or general anaesthesia was around 0.14% where anaesthesia could be considered a potential contributor—roughly 1 in 700.[7]
Modern veterinary practices use sophisticated monitoring equipment, safer anaesthetic drugs, and protocols tailored to your dog's age, breed, and health status. Pre-anaesthetic blood tests help identify any underlying issues that might increase risk.
For most dogs, the risk of leaving dental disease untreated—allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream and potentially damage the heart, liver, and kidneys—is far greater than the risk of a properly managed anaesthetic.
A thorough veterinary dental includes:
The cost of a veterinary dental varies significantly depending on your location, your dog's size, and what treatment is needed.
A standard scale and polish costs around £233 on average in the UK, though prices range from £150 to over £500 depending on the practice and region.[8]
Here's what influences the price:
The Royal Veterinary College in London, for example, lists dental prices starting from £450 for simple cases with 1-4 extractions, rising to £800 or more for complex work involving 10+ teeth.[9]
This depends on your policy. Most insurers classify routine dental cleaning as "preventative care" and exclude it. However, if your dog develops gum disease, a tooth abscess, or needs extractions due to illness, this may be covered.
The key is whether the treatment is for an accident or illness versus routine maintenance. Check your policy wording carefully, and look for cover that specifically includes dental illness. For more detail, see our guide to pet insurance with dental cover.
Brushing is the most effective method, but it's not the only option. Here's what else can help—and what doesn't work as well as you might think.
Not all dental chews are created equal. Look for products with the VOHC seal (Veterinary Oral Health Council). This means they've been tested and proven to reduce plaque or tartar by at least 10-20%.[10]
VOHC-approved products available in the UK include:
The GREENIES Daily Original Dental Treats (Medium) are VOHC-approved and designed for dogs 12-22kg. The unique texture cleans down to the gumline to fight plaque and tartar.
For a natural, vegetarian option, WHIMZEES by Wellness Dental Chews are grain-free, hypoallergenic, and VOHC-approved for plaque and tartar reduction. Long-lasting and available in multiple sizes.
The Virbac VeggieDent FR3SH Dental Chews are recommended by veterinary practices across the UK. The FR3SH technology includes pomegranate and erythritol to help freshen breath.
You can find the full list of VOHC-accepted products on their website. Match the chew size to your dog's weight—too small and they'll swallow it whole; too large and it may be too hard.
Products containing Ascophyllum nodosum (a North Atlantic seaweed) have shown genuine results in clinical studies. The seaweed works systemically—it's absorbed into the bloodstream and secreted in saliva, where it helps soften plaque and reduce tartar formation.[11]
ProDen PlaqueOff is the best-known brand, available as a powder you sprinkle on food. Some studies have shown a 35% reduction in plaque after 8 weeks of daily use. It's not a replacement for brushing, but it's a useful addition to your dental care routine.
The ProDen PlaqueOff Powder (60g) contains 100% natural Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed. Simply sprinkle on food daily—one pot can last up to 6 months depending on your dog's size. Works systemically through saliva to help soften plaque.
Standard kibble does not clean teeth. It's a persistent myth. Most dry food shatters on contact rather than scraping the tooth surface. There are specialised dental diets (like Hill's t/d or Royal Canin Dental) that use larger, fibrous kibbles designed to maintain contact with the tooth—these can help, but they're not a substitute for brushing.
Raw bones and antlers are risky. While many owners believe bones clean teeth, the evidence points the other way. Hard chews like bones, antlers, hooves, and nylon toys are a leading cause of tooth fractures in dogs, particularly the large carnassial teeth at the back of the mouth.[12]
Cornell University's veterinary college recommends avoiding bones, antlers, and hooves entirely. If your dog loves to chew, look for softer options like rubber Kong toys or appropriately-sized dental chews that flex slightly under pressure.
These products contain enzymes or antibacterial agents that help control oral bacteria. While they're not as effective as brushing, they can be useful if your dog absolutely refuses to tolerate a toothbrush. Look for VOHC-approved water additives—not all products on the market have been properly tested.
Good dental care for your dog isn't complicated, but it does require consistency. Here's a practical routine:
Prevention really is the key here. A few minutes of brushing several times a week, combined with the right chews and regular check-ups, will save you from expensive vet bills and spare your dog from painful dental disease.
If your dog already has significant tartar or gum problems, don't delay getting them seen by a vet. The sooner you address it, the less invasive the treatment needs to be—and the sooner your dog will be comfortable again.
Daily brushing is ideal, but three times a week still provides real benefits. Plaque takes 24-48 hours to harden into tartar, so brushing every other day helps prevent that build-up. Even twice a week is better than nothing at all.
Deaths during anaesthesia are rare. UK research puts the risk at around 0.14% (roughly 1 in 700) for cases where anaesthesia may have contributed. For healthy dogs having routine procedures with proper monitoring, the risk is even lower. The greater danger is leaving dental disease untreated, which can lead to infections that spread to major organs.
Brushing with dog toothpaste is the most effective natural method. You can supplement this with VOHC-approved dental chews and seaweed supplements like PlaqueOff. There's no natural substitute for mechanical plaque removal through brushing—other methods help but don't replace it.
Persistent bad breath usually signals bacteria and plaque in the mouth. It's often the first sign of dental disease. Other causes can include kidney problems, diabetes, or digestive issues. If your dog's breath is notably foul, it's worth a vet check to rule out underlying health problems.
Go slowly and build up gradually. Start by letting them lick toothpaste from your finger, then progress to touching their gums, and eventually introduce the brush. Keep sessions short and always end on a positive note with praise or a treat. Some dogs take weeks to accept brushing—patience is key. If your dog remains too anxious, consider professional help from a groomer experienced with anxious dogs.
Veterinary Disclaimer
This article provides general information about dog dental care for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your dog shows signs of dental disease—including bad breath, discoloured teeth, red gums, difficulty eating, or any behavioural changes—please consult a qualified veterinarian. Never use human toothpaste on dogs, and always follow your vet's specific recommendations for your pet's individual needs.
Browse our directory of qualified, reviewed dog groomers in Folkestone. Compare services, prices, and availability for expert coat care.
Find Local GroomersDiscover more helpful tips and guides for your pet grooming needs
Learn how to trim your dog's nails safely at home with the right tools and technique. Covers clippers vs grinders, finding the quick, and what to do if you cut too far.
A good deshedding brush removes loose undercoat before it covers your home. Learn about the best tools, techniques, and when to book professional deshedding for your double-coated dog.
Senior dogs need extra support for their joints, tailored grooming, careful nutrition, and regular vet check-ups. Learn when dogs become seniors, how to spot joint problems, and make home adaptations for comfort.
