Home dental care is a great step that you can take towards keeping your dogs teeth and gums healthy. Brushing your dog’s teeth helps to prevent the build-up of plaque and as a result minimise dental disease. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Step 1. Gather your tools
You will need a specially designed toothbrush for dogs. Their bristles are softer and they are angled for your dog’s mouth. You can get finger brushes that are great for small dogs or long handled toothbrushes that offer greater reach for larger dogs. Do not use a human adult toothbrush to brush your dog’s teeth. You can use a soft child’s “My First Toothbrush” if necessary. You can also use gauze swabs or even a face washer wrapped around your finger.
You will need some dog toothpaste too. Never use human toothpaste as it contains ingredients that can be harmful to your dog’s stomach. Dog toothpaste is available in a range of flavours to suit your dog’s tastebuds.
Step 2. Start slowly
Get in a comfortable position with your dog. Get down to their level and make sure they are calm and relaxed at all times. Don’t hold them down.
Start by lightly rubbing your finger along their gums and teeth to get them used to the feeling of you touching inside their mouth.
Next, put some toothpaste on your fingertip and let them try it. If after a few tries they refuse to lick the toothpaste, it may be worth trying a different flavour.
Step 3. Start brushing
When your dog is used to you touching inside their mouth, start using the toothbrush with some toothpaste on it.
Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to their gum line.
Lift their upper lip and brush in small gentle circles over the surface of each tooth.
Step 4. Build up over time
Start with a few easy to reach teeth and work up to more each day. Start with the outside (cheek facing) teeth and back teeth where plaque tends to collect.
If you can clean the insides of their teeth, great. If they won’t let you, don’t worry as their coarse tongue helps to keep that area cleaner.
Keep it gentle and fun and limit each brushing session to a few minutes.
Aim to brush your dog’s teeth daily, but even once a week will make a difference.
Step 5. Reassure & reward them
Be gentle, pat and talk to your dog while you are brushing their teeth.
When you have finished, give them a reward. Rewards could include a dental treat, pat, praise, a toy or playtime. This way they will associate tooth brushing as a positive experience, making it easier for both of you.
Step 6. Check for signs of dental disease
Brushing your dog’s teeth is a great time to check for signs of dental disease.
If your dog has loose teeth, bleeding or swollen gums or seems sensitive around the mouth speak to your local vet before you continue brushing.
Remember good dental care doesn’t end with tooth brushing. It’s important to check your dog’s mouth regularly for signs of dental disease. Dental treats and chew toys can also help to fight off plaque. Don’t forget to schedule regular dental checks with your vet. They can give you advice on a preventative dental health care plan suited to your dog’s individual needs. To book a dental appointment, call us on 03 8784 4444.