How To Take Care of Your Dog’s Teeth

Dogs need oral care just like humans do. In fact, dental disease is the most common health problem in dogs. From figuring out which pet insurance covers dental to picking out dental chews in the treat aisle, caring for your pup’s teeth is an easy way to improve their overall well-being.

Here are some tips on how to take care of your dog’s teeth.

Brush their teeth regularly.

Dogs love routine, so start brushing your dog’s teeth at an early age. Puppies are easiest to train, but all dogs can learn to tolerate it if it’s done slowly and patiently.

To make brushing your dog’s teeth easier, start with a toothpaste and brush that your dog likes. There are many flavors and textures of toothpaste made for dogs. Peanut butter is a popular choice, but any flavor that your dog likes will work.

Start by using a small amount of toothpaste on your finger. Gently rub your dog’s teeth and gums with your finger. Once your dog is comfortable with you touching his or her teeth, start using a soft toothbrush.

If your dog resists having his or her teeth brushed, start with the outside of the teeth. Once your dog is comfortable with that, move to the inside of the teeth. Teaching your dog to have their teeth brushed can be a slow process, but it’s worth it for your dog’s health.

Use a circular motion to brush all the surfaces of your dog’s teeth. Be sure to get the inside surfaces of the teeth, too. Use a gauze pad or a piece of dental floss to get in between the teeth.

Dogs need their teeth brushed at least once a week. If your dog has a lot of tartar buildup, you may need to brush his or her teeth more often. If you can’t brush your dog’s teeth regularly, at least make sure to give them a dental chew or a bone once a week. This will help to keep their teeth clean.

If you’re not able to brush your dog’s teeth yourself, you can have them professionally cleaned at the vet’s office. Dental cleanings are an important part of oral care for dogs and should be done at least once a year.

See their veterinarian.

If your dog has bad breath, it may be a sign that they need to see the veterinarian. This can be a sign of gum disease, tooth decay, or other health problems. Gum disease is the most common cause of bad breath in dogs. It is caused by plaque and tartar buildup on the teeth. The plaque and tartar can irritate the gums, which can lead to infection. The infection can spread to the rest of the body and can even be fatal. Tooth decay is another common cause. It is caused by bacteria that form on the teeth. The bacteria can damage the teeth and gums, which can lead to an off-putting scent.

Other health issues that can cause smelly breath in dogs include liver disease, kidney disease, and diabetes. If your dog has bad breath, it is important to take them to the veterinarian. The veterinarian can determine the cause of the odor and treat it. Regular dental check-ups are important, too. Your veterinarian can clean your dog’s teeth and check for signs of dental disease. If your dog has dental disease, your veterinarian can recommend treatment.

Dental disease is a common problem in dogs, but it’s easy to keep their teeth healthy by brushing them regularly and providing them with dental chews. By taking these simple steps, you can help ensure that your dog has a healthy smile for years to come.