Preventable dental care is key to keeping your dog healthy -- not only does good dental treatment make a difference in oral health but it also treats internal organs including the heart, liver and kidneys. Dogs who are given routine dental care, including frequent toothbrushing and professional check ups, usually lead longer, healthier lives.

Follow our five things to know about brushing your dog's teeth, from selecting toothpaste to what happens at a professionally performed canine dental cleaning. First, let's look at how to determine whether or not a dog has an unhealthy mouth.