We all know that a good diet is essential for keeping your pet healthy, but did you know that what your pet eats can significantly impact their dental health? The right nutrition can prevent plaque buildup, strengthen teeth, and reduce the risk of gum disease, while poor dietary choices may contribute to tartar accumulation, bad breath, and tooth decay.

Dental care starts with the food your pet eats. In this Pet Dental Health Month guide from Marianna Animal Hospital, we’ll explore how diet plays a role in oral health, the best foods for strong teeth, and what to avoid to keep your pet’s smile bright and healthy.

How Food Impacts Your Pet’s Teeth & Gums

Just like in humans, certain foods help clean teeth, while others promote plaque buildup. Certain foods like dental treats scrape away plaque as your pet chews. Other foods can stick to teeth, encouraging bacterial growth. Nutritional deficiencies will weaken your pet’s teeth and gums. A diet lacking in key nutrients can make teeth more prone to decay and infection. A poor diet can lead to bad breath, swollen gums, and even tooth loss over time.

Best Foods for Your Pet’s Dental Health

1. High-Quality Pet Food

Quality diets for cats and dogs contribute key nutrients that keep your pet’s teeth strong and don’t contain a lot of ingredients that are detrimental to oral health. Some veterinary diets are even formulated to promote dental health. Just because food is higher in quality does not mean it has to be expensive! Talk to your veterinarian about brand or dietary recommendations.

2. Dental Chews & Treats

Dental chews are meant to clean teeth while satisfying your pet’s natural urge to chew.

• Look for VOHC-approved (Veterinary Oral Health Council) dental chews.
• Avoid hard treats like bones that can crack teeth.
• Always supervise your pet while they chew to prevent choking or fractures.

Please note that dental treats should complement, not replace, regular tooth brushing.

3. Water Additives & Oral Rinses

Hydration flushes away food particles and bacteria that cause plaque. Fresh water should always be available to keep your pet’s mouth clean. Some water additives can contribute to breaking down plaque and freshening breath. Oral rinses can help control bacteria in pets who resist brushing. Always make sure to consult with a veterinarian before adding anything to your cat or dog’s water.

Foods That Can Harm Your Pet’s Teeth

Not all pet foods support dental health—some actually contribute to decay and gum disease.

• Sugary Treats: Some commercial pet treats contain added sugars, which can promote tooth decay.
• Table Scraps & Human Food: Some foods that we humans eat can increase bacteria in the mouth and also lead to digestive upset. Certain foods like grapes and chocolate can even be toxic to your pet!

How to Maintain Your Pet’s Oral Health Beyond Diet

Even with the best diet, pets still need regular dental care to prevent disease.

• Brush their teeth at least 3 times per week with pet-safe toothpaste.
• Provide dental chews or toys to reduce plaque.
• Bring your pet in for a veterinary checkup at least once a year so they can receive a physical oral exam.
• Schedule annual pet dental cleanings at Marianna Animal Hospital to remove deep tartar buildup.

Diet & Dental Health Go Hand-in-Hand at Marianna Animal Hospital

A balanced diet plays a huge role in keeping your pet’s teeth strong and healthy. Choosing the right food, chews, and supplements can help prevent dental disease and improve overall well-being. February is Pet Dental Health Month. Need help choosing the best diet for your pet’s dental health this month? Marianna Animal Hospital is here to help. Book an appointment today!