How to Clean Your Pet’s Teeth: A Quick Guide
Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly helps prevent gum disease.
Plaque builds up in the teeth and bacteria can attach to the plaque. Bacteria can erode the supporting structures of the teeth, leading to sore and mobile teeth. This affects your pet’s ability to chew properly and can lead to further oral problems.
Dental hygiene also promotes overall health and general well-being, just like in humans! Plaque is established daily, so brushing consistently is key to preventing dental problems.
Possible signs of Dental Issues:
Smelly breath
Yellow or brown buildup on teeth (tartar)
Red or swollen gums (gingivitis)
Difficulty eating or chewing
Tips to help brush your pet’s teeth:
1. Choose the Right Supplies:
Toothbrush: Look for a soft-bristled toothbrush with a small head. We generally recommend human toddler toothbrushes for these reasons!
Dog toothpaste: Use only toothpaste made for pets. These are flavoured which can make the process more enjoyable and can make the toothbrush more readily accepted. Human toothpaste can be toxic to pets.
2. Take it Slow:
Training your pet to accept tooth brushing takes time, patience, and consistency. Pets generally do well with routine!
Get your pets used to touching around their face/muzzle first. Ideally, start this at a young age.
Start with short sessions. Gradually build up to brushing their entire mouth as they get more comfortable.
Move at your pet’s pace, and if they resist, step back and try again the next day.
Positive reinforcement is key! This can be in the form of praise, treats, or playing with toys afterward.
3. Begin Brushing:
Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the brush.
Angle the brush at 45 degrees to your dog’s teeth to reach the gum line.
Use gentle circular motions on the outer surfaces of the teeth. Try to brush all the teeth in the mouth, at the front and back of the mouth.
Praise and reward your dog throughout the process to keep them calm and happy.
Ideally, we also brush the inside surface of the teeth, but this can be more challenging.
Make your pet teeth a habit & routine
We asked our Vet, Dr Lana Robertson, for her advice, and she commented “Consistency is key to success. Ideally, brushing should be performed every day since plaque can build up daily, just like in humans. We recommend adding brushing into your dog's regular routine, for example before the morning walk or at dinner time.
With consistent practice, brushing will become a habit that your dog accepts more easily over time. You should also use regular vet check-ups to ensure your dog’s teeth are healthy and to catch any dental issues early.”
Book a consultation with one of our vets today for an oral examination and dental check!