Your dog’s oral hygiene directly affects its health. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that 80% of dogs have canine periodontal disease (PD) or show signs when they reach three years old.
Many pet parents unknowingly overlook their dog’s dental care until they notice symptoms of periodontal disease. Signs your dog has PD include red gums, loose teeth, bleeding gums, bad breath, lumps in the mouth, ropey saliva, blood in the saliva, sneezing, oral cavities, and bone decay.
If your dog has tooth decay, tartar buildup, plaque, bad breath, red gums, swollen gums, or gums that bleed for no reason, seek veterinarian assistance to determine a treatment plan.
Brushing your dog’s teeth regularly and focusing on their dental hygiene helps prevent periodontal disease from developing.
The following information will tell you how to clean your dog’s teeth and support dental health throughout your pet’s life.
5 Ways to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth
Professional Cleaning
Professional dental cleaning for your dog includes plaque removal from below the gum line, tartar removal, x-rays, and an exam to look for warning signs of periodontal disease.
Dog breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Dachshunds, and Bulldogs are known to be susceptible to PD. Follow-up cleaning appointments every six months are often recommended by veterinarians depending on your dog’s specific needs.
Dental Chews
Dental chews are specially designed to clean your dog’s teeth, stimulate circulation in the gums, minimize plaque, and polish teeth.
They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Many of the designs feature nubs and ridges that allow your dog to chew efficiently and reach all tooth surfaces and crevices. Most dental chews satisfy your dog’s desire for a tasty treat as well as contain healthy ingredients.
Toothbrush
When you became a pet parent and welcomed your little bundle of fur into your home, you probably never thought you would be brushing their teeth.
Many dog owners are surprised when a veterinarian informs them of a toothbrushing regimen that needs to be established for their pet.
The good news is that the pet industry has pet-friendly toothpaste that cleans the surface of teeth and tastes great! There are also specially designed pet toothbrushes with soft bristles and angled handles to make things easier for you.
Dental Spray
Doggie dental spray is designed to kill bacteria that cause plaque and freshens your dog’s breath. You sprits your dog’s gums and teeth with the spray and allow it to work.
It takes minimal effort and is an excellent option in between brushings and professional cleanings. The dental spray is helpful if your dog doesn’t like to get its teeth brushed.
Chew Toys
Chew toys that are made of rubber, rawhide, plastic, and nylon are beneficial when your dog plays. The gnawing and chewing motion scrape bacteria away from teeth and stimulate the gums.
Chew toys also keep your dog’s mind mentally stimulated and allows them to be playful. They come in a variety of styles, designs, colors, materials and can be purchased online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use human toothpaste to brush my dog’s teeth
No. Toothpaste made for humans contains a variety of ingredients that are toxic for dogs. If you have used human toothpaste to brush your dog’s teeth, rush your dog to the local animal hospital for immediate treatment.
How can I get plaque off my dog’s teeth
You can get plaque off your dog’s teeth by brushing with pet-friendly toothpaste, giving your dog a dental chew to gnaw on, or a chewy toy. If the plaque is still on your dog’s teeth, schedule a professional cleaning with a professional or veterinarian.
What is the best thing to use to clean my dog’s teeth
A. A specially designed doggie toothbrush is the best thing to use to clean your dog’s teeth safely and gently.
How can I clean my dog’s teeth without brushing
You can give your dog a dental chew, chew toys or use a dental spray to clean your dog’s teeth.
What do I do if my dog doesn’t like me to brush their teeth
Many dogs are sensitive to their owners brushing their teeth.
Some dogs think it’s a game, while others are fearful of the toothbrush.
If your dog doesn’t allow you to brush their teeth, use a dental spray to kill bacteria in their mouth.
Also, you will need to make an appointment with the veterinarian for a professional cleaning.
Veterinarians usually calm your dog with medication before cleaning to ensure your dog is calm and relaxed.
Can I use coconut oil on my dog’s teeth and gums
Yes. You can use coconut oil on your dog’s teeth but in small amounts. Coconut is generally safe for dogs when used sparingly. However, coconuts’ milk and flesh contain oils that can lead to diarrhea, loose stools, and an upset stomach if used in large amounts or if your pet has a sensitivity to coconuts.
How to prevent tartar from building up on my dog’s teeth
You can prevent tartar buildup on your dog’s teeth when you use a dental spray regularly, provide your dog with dental chews, chew toys, and provide professional cleanings. You can also brush your dog’s teeth regularly to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.
How do I keep my dog still while I brush their teeth
Many dogs don’t like to have their teeth brushed and often wiggle around during the cleaning session. You can create a calming environment by putting classical music on and speaking to your dog in a soft-toned voice.
Brushing your dog’s teeth starting from puppyhood is recommended to help them adapt to the feeling and process.
After the toothbrushing session, you can follow up with some dental spray and a chew toy to reward your dog.
Bottom Line
Cleaning your dog’s teeth is essential to their oral health. Dogs that have poor dental hygiene often develop periodontal disease, leading to other health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and a broken jaw.
It’s never too late to start taking care of your dog’s teeth and overall oral health. The first thing you need to do is visit a veterinarian to determine your dog’s current oral health condition.
The veterinarian will conduct an exam that includes x-rays and determine the next step to improving your dog’s oral health. Chances are the veterinarian will recommend professional teeth cleaning to get started then offer other suggestions such as dental spray, chew toys, dental chews, and brushing your dog’s teeth regularly.
The veterinarian will also schedule a follow-up in about six months or sooner, depending on your dog’s condition. It’s best to follow the recommendations the veterinarian offers and discuss any concerns you have regarding your dog.
The pet industry has made things easier for pet parents by designing special toothbrushes for dogs and pet-friendly toothpaste. The toothbrush allows you to easily reach your dog’s teeth to remove food particles, debris, plaque, and tartar.
The pet-friendly toothpaste contains healthy ingredients that are safe for your dog to consume without worrying about stomach upset occurring. It comes in various flavors that pets love, which makes cleaning your dog’s teeth a breeze! Visit the PetStruggles homepage for more expert advice & information.
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