Dr. Lopez, DVM:
"What can I do at home to take care of my pet's teeth?"
We all know that we should brush our own teeth twice a day, and visit the dentist regularly. When it comes to our pets, dental health is just as important. What can you do at home to help?
Toothbrushing
Toothbrushing is the best way to take care of your pet’s teeth to decrease plaque and tartar buildup. If you have never done this with your pet before, it will take some patience and training. Plan on trying each step for a few days to a week or so. If any stress is noted by your pet, they may need you to take things slower, or go back to the previous step. Training should be fun, and with a good amount of treats to make it a happy experience!
Start by:
Purchase a pet safe toothbrush and toothpaste. You can buy toothbrushes with a handle (that look like the ones we use) or a finger brush–whatever is easiest for you.
Start by letting your pet smell the brush, and lick the toothpaste off your finger. Give treats before and after this process.
Once the pet is comfortable with step 2, place the toothpaste on your finger, lift the lip gently, and briefly rub a finger over the outside of the teeth on one side. Give treats before and after.
Once your pet is comfortable with step 3, place toothpaste on the toothbrush. Lift lip gently and gently brush teeth back and forth with the bristles pointing at a 45 degree angle towards the gums. Use gentle pressure–the bristles should not flare out or flatten against the teeth. This first introduction with the toothbrush can be brief. Again, lots of treats and positive reinforcement!
Extend the amount of time brushing the outside of the teeth slowly. We do not need to get the inner surface of the tooth. If your pet is too stressed with brushing the full mouth in one sitting, aim for different sections of the mouth with each attempt.
Your eventual goal will be to brush your pet’s teeth once a day, or at least 3 times a week to see the benefits from toothbrushing.
Here is a video from the American Veterinary Medicine Association on at home dental care and toothbrush training: Home dental care for your pet
Dental treats
Dental treats are another great way to help decrease plaque and tartar buildup. While toothbrushing is the most effective route for at home dental care, sometimes our schedules get too hectic, or maybe your animal just isn't a fan of toothbrushing.
When looking for a dental treat, look for the white “VOHC” seal from the veterinary oral health council on the front of the package. Having this seal means that the product has been proven to significantly decrease plaque and tartar in studies, and is effective.
Dental treats are best used when given daily, or can be given on days when you are unable to brush your pet’s teeth. Some companies have size ranges on their treats, as giving too small of a treat can be a choking hazard. Use caution if you have a large dog and smaller dog in the same home- they should get their size appropriate treat.
Dental water additives
While water additives can be helpful, they are not as effective as toothbrushing or dental treats. If using, they are best paired with another form of at home dental care. Water additives can be considered for the animals that do not allow the owner to brush their teeth, and do not like dental treats. Dental water additives also have the “VOHC” seal if they have been tested to be effective.
Dental cleanings with your vet
Just like we have to still go to the dentist for a cleaning despite good tooth brushing at home- the same thing applies to our pets. Even with the best at home care, your pet will still get plaque and tartar buildup, and this is ok! Your at home care is decreasing the rate of buildup, and is helpful for maintaining good oral health. Your vet will assess if your pet is due for an anesthetic dental cleaning at each yearly wellness checkup.
To book an appointment fora dental consultation at your nearest CAMP clinic, call (310) 574-5555 or visit our website: www.campLA.org