An essential and often overlooked aspect of dog ownership is maintaining your dog’s oral health. It is helpful to think of a dog’s oral health as the gateway to his overall body health.
This is because dental problems such as periodontal disease can cause infections throughout your dog’s body. Fortunately, many practical solutions exist to keep your dog’s oral health in tip-top shape. These include dog dental chews, regular tooth brushing, and professional cleanings.
How to clean your dog’s teeth
If you’re wondering how to keep your dog’s teeth clean, the best way is regular brushing. While some dogs are willing to have their teeth brushed, others may be reluctant.
Suppose your dog is reluctant to cooperate; ask your veterinarian how to brush his teeth properly. Remember to ask your veterinarian for recommendations on brushes and toothpaste for dogs.
How do you brush a dog’s teeth?
It is essential to start brushing your dog’s teeth as soon as possible. The best way to clean a puppy’s teeth is to start early and establish a routine. The sooner dogs get used to brushing their teeth, the better.
Find a time to brush your dog daily to make it part of his daily routine. Try to choose a time when you are both relaxed and comfortable.
Start by slowly rubbing your dog’s mouth with your fingers.
Once he is used to it, introduce a small amount of dog toothpaste by putting a little on your fingertip. You can also use gauze wrapped around the finger to get a minor abrasion.
When you have gotten the hang of it, insert a toothbrush. Let your dog smell the brush and get comfortable with it before you begin.
Gently touch your dog’s teeth with the brush, offering a treat and praising him afterward for positive reinforcement.
Once your dog has become familiar with the brush, apply the bristles to the teeth and try brushing the surface of the teeth to just below the gum line without brushing the gums directly.
Once you get into this habit, you can help your dog maintain good oral health and, hopefully, good breath.
Remember that you should use something other than human toothpaste instead of dog toothpaste. Human toothpaste often contains xylitol and other ingredients that are harmful to dogs.
Be sure to encourage and praise your dog during this process so that he associates tooth brushing with positive feelings.
Alternatives and Supplements to Canine Toothbrushing
There are alternatives if you are wondering how to keep a dog’s teeth clean without brushing. They reach a different level of cleanliness than brushing, but they can be a helpful supplement.
That said, while regular tooth brushing is the best way to keep your dog’s teeth and gums healthy, other measures should be taken in addition to brushing. Here are some of them
Dental treats for dogs that promote plaque removal and fresh breath.
Chew toys
Oral gel
Most veterinarians also offer complete dental cleanings under anesthesia. Some dogs never need professional dental cleanings, while others may have difficulty maintaining optimal dental health.
Before starting a new dental care routine with your dog, schedule a dental exam and see if a cleaning is needed. Some breeds of dogs are more prone to dental disease than others. According to some references, 60% of dental health is related to genetic or hereditary characteristics.
If your dog needs a dental cleaning at your veterinarian’s office, it will be performed under anesthesia. Unsightly dental cleanings, often performed by groomers and others, can pose health risks to your dog.
In addition, more than half of the tooth is under the gum line and cannot be seen or examined when the dog awakens. If you are concerned that your dog may be under anesthesia, discuss with your veterinarian why anesthesia is essential during a dental cleaning.
It’s always a good idea to tell your veterinarian about your oral health concerns and ask questions during your dog’s routine checkups.
The importance of oral health in dogs
If you are diligent, your efforts to maintain your dog’s oral health will pay off.
Oral health problems in dogs can lead to health problems throughout the body. Many experts believe that poor oral hygiene in dogs can lead to heart problems, diabetes, kidney infections, and even jaw fractures.
If you are concerned that your dog may have oral health problems, look for the following.
Visible plaque and tartar
Reluctance to eat or loss of appetite
Excessive drooling
bad breath
swollen, irritated, or bleeding gums
loose, cracked, or missing teeth
Swelling of the face, especially under the eyes
