Many dog owners are concerned about how to brush their dog’s teeth. Dogs, like humans, require healthy teeth and gums. Dogs must receive proper oral care, including dental hygiene, both at home and in professional clinics in order to have healthy teeth.
However, many owners do not brush their pets’ teeth for a variety of reasons. Improper oral hygiene can lead to a variety of health issues.
The most common ailment in our beloved pets is dental disease (particularly periodontal disease). However, it is one of the diseases that can be prevented and treated.
Fortunately, we can reverse and even prevent dental disease in our dogs by feeding them a healthy diet and brushing their teeth on a daily basis, as well as selecting the appropriate chew toys and treats for them. Here’s how to brush your dog’s teeth.
When should you begin brushing your dog’s teeth?
Brush your dog’s teeth when he is young (ideally around 8 weeks of age) or after dental care at the veterinary clinic.
Make your dog comfortable with your hands
Massage the lips, teeth, and gums of your dog. Maintain a comfortable position for the dog. Twice a day, gently massage the edges with your fingers for about 1 minute.
Following that, massage your teeth and gums as described above. It takes a few weeks for the dog to become accustomed to and comfortable with this massage.
Get your dog’s toothbrush and toothpaste ready
A soft-bristled toothbrush and veterinary toothpaste are required. Human toothpaste and baking soda can be hazardous to dogs.
Dogs are also drawn to the smell of veterinary toothpaste. Because the gum line is a very sensitive and important area, only use a soft-bristled brush to clean it.
Because of the effectiveness and safety of the product for dogs, Beaphar is the most popular brand of toothbrush and toothpaste on the market.
Some oral characteristics that dogs should be aware of
There are a few things to remember about pet mouths that will help us know where, when, and how to brush them.
Every day, plaque accumulates on tooth surfaces, particularly below the gum line, and it takes less than 36 hours for it to mineralize and harden into tartar that a toothbrush cannot remove. Brushing your dog’s teeth daily is therefore recommended to remove plaque below the gum line.
Set aside a specific time each day to brush your dog’s teeth
This will help your pet develop a daily brushing habit. Brushing your pet every day before a walk or training session can help him or her look forward to it.
Allow some time (perhaps a few days) for both the person and the dog to adjust to the situation. Reward them after brushing their teeth.
Train Your Dog to Accept Dental Instruments
Introduce toothpaste to your dog after he’s gotten used to massaging his mouth before you start brushing his teeth.
Put a pea-sized amount of toothpaste on one of your fingers and give it to your dog to see if it likes it.
Then introduce a toothbrush to them and get them used to brushing their teeth in their mouths. Brush the outside of your dog’s front teeth once he’s gotten used to it.
Brushing your pet’s teeth takes less than 30 seconds when done vertically. Then gradually increase the amount of brushing, beginning with the outer surface and progressing to the inner surface, and finally both teeth. At first, don’t try to brush your entire mouth.
Don’t be discouraged if your dog only wants you to brush the outside of his upper teeth; this is the most important part of the tooth for preventing periodontal disease. Just be patient, and your dog will eventually allow you to brush his teeth.
Even if they practice good oral hygiene at home, dogs, like humans, require dental care at a clinic.
Brushing your dog’s teeth and actively combating periodontal disease can reduce the frequency of office cleanings and provide your pet with a healthier, happier smile.
How to Clean a Picky Dog’s Teeth
Some dogs will not let you brush their teeth no matter what. Other oral care products, fortunately, can assist our pets in keeping their mouths clean and healthy.
You can, for example, use Beaphar’s dog mouth spray or teething chew toys. Consult your veterinarian if you are unsure about which oral hygiene product to use.
In short, do your best to make brushing your dog’s teeth a pleasurable experience, but if your dog is having difficulty brushing, consult your veterinarian. Remember that the better you care for your dog’s teeth, the healthier he or she will be.
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