Dog Owner’s Guide To Promoting Good Dental Health
Your canine’s teeth are susceptible to decay and disease in the same way as your own. The problem is, dogs are unable to brush their teeth and gums like people. As a result, your pooch relies on you to help maintain his dental health.
Sadly, most owners neglect to provide their pets with good dental care. Even worse, many are unable to recognize the warning signs of oral disease and tooth decay. With this in mind, we’ll provide a quick blueprint you can use to make sure your dog’s teeth and gums remain in good condition. We’ll describe some of the common signs of trouble and explain how to do a thorough job brushing his teeth.
The Sniff Test
Once a week, smell your canine’s breath. If it smells awful, it may indicate a problem with his oral health. Excessively bad breath in dogs is often caused by bacteria that has accumulated in the mouth. This bacteria may be a sign of gingivitis. It begins with the buildup of plaque, which gradually turns into tartar. This tartar eventually causes inflammation of the gumline, which sets the stage for gingivitis and causes bad breath.
It may be mildly unpleasant to smell your pooch’s breath, but doing so is worthwhile. This is one of the first signs of a dental problem.
A Visual Inspection
Visually inspect your canine’s teeth and gums at least once a week. You’ll need to pull back his lips and take a close look at the gumline. Look for pieces of food that have become stuck within small spaces. Make note of tartar that has formed on his teeth. Look for a pinkish hue to his gums. Redness is usually a sign of inflammation – as mentioned earlier, this suggests gingivitis.
Your pooch may initially resist your attempts to look at his teeth and gums. Be persistent. He’ll eventually grow accustomed to your weekly inspections.
How To Brush Your Pooch’s Teeth
If you have never brushed your dog’s teeth, you’ll need to acclimate him to the experience. Let him taste the toothpaste before you begin brushing. If he shows signs of disliking the flavor, switch to another.
You may also need to familiarize him with the sensation of having a toothbrush applied to his teeth and gums. Start by gently applying toothpaste with your finger (your finger is soft and won’t startle him). Gradually introduce the toothbrush by allowing him to lick the toothpaste off the bristles. Again, use a flavor he enjoys.
Once he has grown accustomed to the flavor and texture of the paste, and the feeling of the bristles in his mouth, begin brushing his teeth with gentle circular motions. Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle against his gumline. Doing so will help dislodge food particles while cleaning plaque from the surface. Go slowly to avoid startling your canine.
As you’re brushing, praise him for remaining still and calm. Your voice will be comforting to him, especially if this is his first time. The experience may not be particularly pleasant for him, but he’ll still enjoy having you nearby and hearing your praise.
Be Aware Of Possible Dental Disorders
Take the time to learn about the disorders and diseases that can affect your canine’s oral health. Learn how to spot plaque and tartar buildup. Learn to identify the signs of gingivitis and periodontal disease (i.e. redness, sensitivity to touch, etc.). Speak with your dog’s veterinarian regarding the type of dental care he or she recommends. Make sure oral examinations and routine cleanings are a regular occurrence.
Even though dogs rarely get cavities, they can suffer from the same dental disorders people develop. You can help keep these disorders at bay by regularly inspecting your canine’s teeth and gums, and brushing them daily. That’s the best way to protect his oral health over the long run. Also provide them with high quality dog treats to help with their overall physical and dental health.
