Course 12 of 20 · Everyday tasks

Teeth and Mouth

Brushing only. What to check, what chews can and cannot do, and why scaling is veterinary care.

12 lessons. Published 29 October 2026. Work through the lessons in order; each one builds on the checks in the one before it.

1. Lesson 1. Why is tooth brushing part of grooming at home?

   Tooth brushing is part of home grooming because it removes plaque daily and keeps mouth checks routine, within clear vet limits.

2. Lesson 2. How do you choose a toothbrush and toothpaste made for dogs?

   Choose a dog toothbrush that fits the mouth and a dog toothpaste that is safe to swallow, avoiding human toothpaste entirely.

3. Lesson 3. How do you introduce tooth brushing step by step?

   Introduce tooth brushing in tiny rewarded steps, from lip lifting to a damp brush, over days or weeks without force.

4. Lesson 4. How do you brush the outer surfaces of the teeth?

   Brush the outer tooth surfaces along the gum line with gentle circular motions, focusing on back teeth and stopping for pain or bleeding.

5. Lesson 5. How often should teeth be brushed?

   Brush teeth daily if possible, because plaque reforms each day, with a realistic minimum and vet checks for dogs that cannot be brushed.

6. Lesson 6. What should you check when you look inside a mouth?

   Check teeth, gums, tongue and mouth lining briefly for colour, tartar, damage and change, and refer anything abnormal to a vet.

7. Lesson 7. What are dental chews and water additives, and what are their limits?

   Dental chews and water additives can support brushing, but they do not remove tartar or replace daily brushing and vet care.

8. Lesson 8. What is dental scaling, and why is it veterinary care?

   Dental scaling removes tartar under anaesthesia with examination and X rays, and it must never be attempted at home.

9. Lesson 9. How do you handle a dog that will not accept mouth handling?

   Handle refusal of mouth handling with gradual steps, rewards and hands on professional help, never force, restraint or punishment.

10. Lesson 10. What do bad breath, bleeding gums and loose teeth signal?

    Bad breath, bleeding gums and loose teeth signal mouth disease that needs vet assessment, not stronger brushing or home treatment.

11. Lesson 11. How do you keep a mouth-care routine going?

    Keep a mouth care routine going with a short daily slot, a ready kit, simple records and a forgiving restart after gaps.

12. Lesson 12. When is mouth care a vet job?

    Mouth care is a vet job when tartar, gum disease, broken or loose teeth, pain or swelling are present, and home care must pause and refer.

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