Your dog’s teeth are an important part of their overall health and comfort. Unfortunately, dental problems can develop gradually, and many dogs don’t show obvious signs until the problem has become significant.
The good news is that there are several things you can do at home to help keep your dog’s mouth healthier between professional dental procedures.
Start With Regular Brushing
Brushing your dog’s teeth is one of the most useful things you can do at home to reduce plaque buildup.
Ideally, brushing should become part of your dog’s normal routine. However, don’t expect your dog to immediately accept having a toothbrush in their mouth.
Start slowly:
- Let your dog become comfortable with you touching their muzzle.
- Introduce a pet-safe toothpaste using your finger.
- Gradually rub the toothpaste along the outside surfaces of the teeth.
- Introduce a soft pet toothbrush when your dog is comfortable.
- Keep early sessions short and positive.
- Gradually work toward brushing regularly.
Use toothpaste specifically made for dogs. Human toothpaste should not be used because some ingredients can be harmful to pets.
Pay Attention to the Gumline
Plaque tends to accumulate around the gumline, where the tooth meets the gums.
When brushing, concentrate on the outside surfaces of the teeth, especially along the gumline. You generally don’t need to force your dog’s mouth wide open to brush every surface.
If your dog becomes frightened, painful, or extremely resistant, stop and try again another time rather than turning brushing into a stressful experience.
What About Dental Chews and Toys?
Dental chews and appropriate chew toys may provide some benefit for certain dogs, but they aren’t a replacement for brushing or professional dental care.
Choose products that are appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Avoid extremely hard objects that could fracture teeth.
Watch for Signs of Dental Problems
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
- Bad breath that persists
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
- Heavy tartar buildup
- Loose or damaged teeth
- Dropping food while eating
- Difficulty chewing
- Excessive drooling
- Swelling around the mouth or face
- Changes in appetite
Dogs can continue eating even when they have painful dental disease, so a normal appetite doesn’t necessarily mean that their mouth is healthy.
When a Professional Dental Is Needed
Home brushing helps control plaque, but it cannot remove established dental tartar or treat disease below the gumline.
When significant dental disease is present, a professional veterinary dental procedure may be necessary. Depending on the individual patient, this can include dental cleaning, dental X-rays, and treatment or extraction of diseased teeth.
Dental Procedures at AZ Vet Direct
AZ Vet Direct provides veterinary dental procedures for dogs and cats, including dental cleaning and other dental treatment when appropriate.
We focus on the dental procedures we provide rather than ongoing wellness care. If your pet needs routine examinations, long-term medical management, or treatment for unrelated medical conditions, your regular veterinarian is the appropriate resource.
The Best Dental Routine Is the One You Can Maintain
You don’t have to make your dog’s dental routine complicated. Regular brushing, appropriate chewing options, watching for changes, and having significant dental disease addressed professionally can all help protect your dog’s mouth.
Starting a dental-care routine while your dog is young is ideal, but it’s never too late to begin paying closer attention to their teeth.
