Oral health is optimized when a combination of professional cleanings and oral home care are utilized together. Just like humans, dogs require regular dental care to prevent a host of potential health issues. Brushing your dog’s teeth might seem like a daunting task at first, but like many things, it becomes easier with a routine. The below provides information and tips to achieve the goal of toothbrushing compliance with your canine companion.
Regularly Brushing your Dog’s Teeth Is Important
Maintaining good oral hygiene in dogs is essential for their overall health and longevity. Dental problems can lead to more significant health issues, including gingivitis which progresses to periodontal disease. Plaque and tartar near the gumline incite gingivitis which commonly progresses to periodontal disease. Gingivitis and periodontitis can cause oral discomfort, eventual tooth loss, affect the health of other body organs. Pain and discomfort can be easily overlooked as many dogs may become accustomed to the often slow but progressive nature of periodontal disease. Behavioral changes may be seen and include the following:
- decreased appetite
- irritability
- drooling
How Often Should You Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?
Once daily tooth brushing is considered optimal. It does not take more than a few minutes and the benefits are significant. Brushing dog teeth prevents periodontal diseases by removing plaque, the sticky film of bacteria, and preventing the formation of calculus (tartar). Tooth brushing will also improve overall health by preventing oral bacteria from entering the bloodstream, reducing the risk of systemic diseases. Preventative dental care is more cost-effective than treating advanced periodontal diseases. When home dental care is ignored, periodontal disease is allowed to progress, potentially leading to the need for oral surgery.
Brushing Your Dog’s Teeth: What is needed and how to get started.
- A soft bristled toothbrush and pet-specific toothpaste is recommended. CET enzymatic toothpaste is commonly recommended by many veterinary dentists.
- Establishing a consistent toothbrushing routine is effective. Here’s how to get started:
- Introduce Gradually: Begin by letting your dog get used to the idea of having their mouth touched. Gently touch their lips and teeth with your finger, offering treats and praise for cooperation. Begin by only touching the outside of their teeth and slowly moving to the inside of their mouths.
- **If existing periodontal disease is present, then a professional cleaning may be needed prior to initiating oral home care.
- Familiarization: Before using the toothpaste, allow your dog to sniff and taste it. Different flavors are available, some of which may be more appealing to individual taste buds.
- Consistency is key. Dogs enjoy consistency and like to be part of the pack, even if pack member are humans. Consider brushing your dog’s teeth in the bathroom at the same time you brush your teeth. Tooth brushing is ideally recommended to occur after the morning or evening meal. Twice daily brushing would be an added bonus!
- Take Small Steps: Start by lifting your dog’s lips and brushing a few front teeth. Gradually increase the time as your dog becomes more comfortable.
- Positive Reinforcement: Positive associations can make the process more accessible over time. Words of praise or a dental chew/treat are good reward options.
Suggestions for Effective Brushing:
- Utilize a gentle approach. Approach your dog calmly and gently. Talk to them in soothing tones to keep them at ease.
- Positioning: Find a comfortable and safe position for you and your dog. This might be on your lap, the floor, or any spot where your dog feels secure.
- Brushing Motion: Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the teeth and brush in small, gentle circles. Focus on the outer surface of the tooth near the cusp gum interface, where plaque tends to accumulate.
- Focus on Front Teeth: In the beginning, you might only be able to brush a few front teeth. Gradually work your way to the back teeth as your dog becomes more accustomed to toothbrushing.
- Start short with duration. Aim for sessions lasting 10-20 seconds. You can gradually increase the time as your dog gets used to the routine.
Conclusion
For optimal results, we recommend brushing your dog’s teeth daily along with annual professional cleanings. Professional dental cleanings are also known as a COHAT (Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment Treatment). In a COHAT procedure, a thorough oral exam is completed under anesthesia with full-month dental imaging and cleaning of all tooth surfaces.
An oral exam is considered part of the wellness visit with your primary care veterinarian. When gingivitis and calculus are observed during a physical exam, a COHAT procedure is recommended. This may be completed with your primary care veterinarian or your favorite local veterinary dental specialist!
A healthy mouth is our passion at Montana Pet Dentistry and Oral Surgery. Please reach out to us to schedule an appointment to discuss your dog (or cat’s!) oral health needs.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (9/20/2024) Photo by gotdaflow on Unsplash