The reality is, unless your pet has gum disease, your pet’s fear of having his or her teeth brushing is generally related to a fear of the unknown. However, through developing a consistent brushing routine with our pets, we can ease them into the process and diminish the initial fear or nervousness.

Certainly the benefits or brushing your pet’s teeth outweigh the temporary inconvenience of a squirming kitty or dog, so let’s get brushing!

Don’t Pets Naturally Keep Their Teeth Clean by Chewing?

The short answer is no.

Many people assume that by feeding their pet only dry food, or a “dental chew” to gnaw on, this will ensure strong, healthy teeth. Although, chewing kibble or raw, non-splintering bones can remove some of the superficial plaque and food debris on teeth, chewing alone will not remove all of the plaque around the gum lines where decay and gum disease begin.

Common signs of dental disease can include:

  • Bad breath
  • Excessive drooling
  • Reluctance to eat dry food
  • Bloody or red swollen gums
  • Yellow or brown discoloration of the teeth

Check your pet’s teeth often for signs of disease and watch for indications that your pet may be in pain, such as changes in appetite or rubbing the sides of his or her face.

The best way to prevent the build-up of plaque and the development of tartar is through regular brushing routine veterinary dental cleanings.

At any sign of gum inflammation, you should take your dog or cat in for a veterinary exam. If left untreated, gum disease can develop, possibly leading to tooth loss or inability to eat, or infection-related complications.

Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth, Simplified

Unlike us, with our convenient opposable thumbs, our pet cannot attend to his or her tooth brushing regimen. It’s up to us to roll up our sleeves and learn some expert tricks of the trade.

  • Select a toothpaste that is designed specifically for pets. Never use human toothpastes, which are designed to be spit out (as opposed to swallowed), as pets can’t spit.
  • Remember that this experience is new to your pet. Start out slow, and be patient. Your first steps should be to simply get your pet used to your fingers or the toothbrush being in your pet’s mouth. Once your pet is comfortable with that, move to the next steps.
  • It may be wise to get your dog or cat used the process by gradually introducing your pet’s toothpaste and the sensation of the brush in his or her mouth. If you can’t do a thorough job the first time around, it’s OK. Don’t try to brush all of your pet’s teeth on the first day.
  • Use a soft bristle toothbrush with a long handle to reach the molars. Gauge the size of the toothbrush to the size of your pet, or look for a toothbrush specific to the breed. Brush in a circular motion to remove plaque away from the gum line. Some pets will tolerate electric toothbrushes, which work especially well, but don’t force the issue if the noise adds to his or her nervousness.
  • Rinse the toothbrush often to help remove the plaque from your dog or cat’s mouth.

Be sure to offer your pet plenty of praise and healthy treats for trying – even if your attempts are not successful. Never scold your dog during this process, it will only result in fear and anxiety, and will ultimately undermine your efforts.

Even if you are diligent about brushing your pet’s teeth, it’s recommended that your pet’s dental health be included in his or her twice-yearly wellness exams. Dental cleanings allow us to assess your pet’s overall oral health and thoroughly prevent against tartar buildup, gingivitis, or gum disease.

Seven Hills Veterinary Hospital is proud to retain the services of Veterinary Specialist Larry Klima, DVM and ADVC board-certified in veterinary dentistry and oral surgery, who is skilled in treating a range of dental problems and diseases of the oral cavity. To discuss your pet’s oral health needs, give us a call.