How Often Should You Brush Your Dog Teeth Expert Tips

Taking care of your dog’s teeth is one of the most important ways to ensure their overall health and happiness. Unfortunately, many dogs suffer from dental pain before they show any noticeable symptoms or have a change in their diet. More worryingly, untreated dental disease can lead to complications in vital organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys and lungs. Therefore, taking full care of your dog’s health should always focus on dental hygiene.

Did you know that it only takes 48 hours for tartar to adhere to your dog’s teeth? Ideally, brushing your dog’s teeth daily (or at least every other day) is the best way to prevent tartar buildup. However, we realize that not every pet owner is able to consistently brush their teeth every day. If brushing is not yet part of your daily routine, don’t worry! Checking your dog’s mouth once a week will help catch gum problems (such as cracks, fractures, or abscesses) before they get worse.

How do I brush my dog’s teeth?

You can use a dog-specific toothbrush or even a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for toddlers or babies. While dog-specific toothpaste can make the brushing process more enjoyable for your dog, it’s not necessary. You can skip toothpaste altogether or use a natural product such as coconut oil. Make sure you avoid human toothpaste, however, as it often contains artificial sweeteners that are toxic to dogs.

When brushing, clean the outside of the teeth in a gentle circular motion, brushing both the top and bottom rows. Pay special attention to the upper premolars and molars on the back side, as these are common areas for tartar buildup.

My dog likes to chew on raw bones, won’t this clean his teeth?

Raw bones can help remove some plaque and tartar, but there are risks. Chewing on bones most commonly results in a plate fracture of the upper premolar, which can be very painful and, if left untreated, can lead to an abscessed tooth root. This is why it’s important to check your dog’s teeth regularly, even if they chew bones or other dental snacks.

If you decide to give your dog a bone, make sure you choose a raw bone, not a cooked one. Cooked bones can splinter, which can cause damage or blockages in the gastrointestinal tract.

Which snacks and toys are best for dental health?

The safest dental care treats are those that are softer than your dog’s tooth enamel.Zera’s Fresh All Rover Bones are great for keeping teeth clean and healthy.

As far as toys go, I love Kang’s Toys or Toppls.These toys not only promote dental health, but also combine mealtime with intellectual stimulation. Fill the toys with your dog’s favorite healthy recipes for added fun!

What if my dog already has dental disease?

Don’t beat yourself up too much if your dog is already suffering from tartar buildup, broken teeth, or other dental disease! Some dog breeds are more prone to dental disease, and genetics can have a big impact on oral health.

To completely resolve dental issues, your dog may need to undergo professional dental treatment, including a thorough cleaning under general anesthesia and full-mouth x-rays. While general anesthesia may sound a bit intimidating, it is usually very safe and addressing dental issues early can reduce the need for longer procedures later.

I do not recommend dental cleanings without anesthesia. Such cleanings are purely cosmetic in nature and do not address the root cause of the problem below the gum line, meaning that many dogs continue to suffer from undetected pain and disease.

Taking proactive steps to care for your dog’s teeth can significantly improve their overall health and quality of life. For an interesting perspective on holistic care, read why celebrating successes in advance can be so motivating. Do you have any questions about dog dental care? Let’s keep the discussion going – please leave a comment below!

Hugs.
Dr. Angie

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