Does your dog’s breath smell? Do you see tartar buildup on their teeth? These are all signs that your dog needs some dental attention. Our first recommendation would be to take them to the Vet for a dental check-up or teeth cleaning, or you can visit your nearest grooming parlour. Alternatively, you can clean your dog’s teeth at home. Here are some tips on how to clean your dog’s teeth at home.
Why Is It Important To Clean Your Dog's Teeth?
Just like humans, dogs can develop dental issues if their teeth are not taken care of properly. According to the MSD Veterinary Manual, dogs can suffer from a few dental disorders. Two of these include the following:
Gum Disease
Gum disease develops when bacterial infections grow in the tissue surrounding the teeth, leading to inflammation in the gums, tooth-supporting ligaments, and surrounding bones. Over time, the supportive tissues of the teeth gradually deteriorate, resulting in loose teeth and eventual tooth loss.
Gingivitis
Healthy gums typically have a salmon-pink colour, while red gums are a sign of gingivitis or inflamed gums, which can be painful. It is essential for pet parents to seek veterinary treatment for gingivitis before starting to brush their pets' teeth, as brushing inflamed gums can cause further discomfort.
Endodontic Disease
The endodontic disease occurs inside of the teeth. Dogs can get this disorder because of injuries (aggressive playing or biting inappropriate objects), enamel abnormality and tooth decay.
Visible signs include:
- Pain
- A red/purple or grey teeth colour
- A decrease in appetite
- Swelling in the face
As a pet parent, you cannot always prevent injuries, but when it comes to tooth decay, you can certainly help prevent it by cleaning your dog’s teeth regularly.
How To Clean Your Dog’s Teeth At Home
Now that you have some background knowledge on the importance of dental hygiene for dogs let’s give you some tips on how to clean your dog’s teeth at home.
Before you start brushing your dog’s teeth, it is important to note that brushing is great for removing plaque and preventing tartar. However, it will not remove the tartar. In order to remove tartar buildup you will need to take your pet to the vet for a professional dental scaling. Once this is done, then brushing will help prevent another buildup.
1. Make sure you have the necessary supplies
To properly clean your dog’s teeth, you need to have a few helpful supplies to make the process easier. The most important oral hygiene supplies include:
Dog Toothbrush
You get two types of dog toothbrushes. A finger brush that slips over your finger and a regular toothbrush with a long handle. The type you choose depends on your dog’s demeanour. Research states that regular toothbrushes are great for patient pets, while finger brushes work better for dogs who are a bit agitated or have very small mouths.
Dog Toothpaste
Never use human toothpaste to clean your dog’s teeth. Human toothpaste contains ingredients that are toxic for dogs, such as xylitol and fluoride. Always opt for a specialised dog toothpaste which is safe for them to swallow.
Rubber Gloves (optional)
This is purely for the sake of your own hygiene. If you don’t mind getting a bit messy, then you can skip the gloves.
Dental Dog Treats
Dental dog treats are great for positive reinforcement! You can give your dog a treat right after you've brushed their teeth to make the experience more enjoyable. These treats are usually designed to promote healthy teeth and gums, so it’s a win-win for both you and your dog.
Dental toys
Dental toys or dog teethers are specifically designed to promote healthy teeth and gums while your dog plays with it. This is a great way to keep your dog’s teeth clean in between brushings.
2. Choose a comfortable location.
Make sure your dog is in a comfortable position. This could be on the floor, on their favourite bed or even in your lap. You want to make sure they are relaxed and not feeling anxious during the process.
3. Get your dog used to the toothbrush.
Before starting the actual cleaning process, let your dog sniff and lick the toothbrush. This will help them get used to it and make the process go smoother. Leading up to their teeth cleaning, you can also start rubbing the sides of your dog’s mouth to get them used to the feeling or sensation around their gums and teeth.
4. Start brushing
This is where the actual cleaning begins. Remember, don't expect miracles if this is your and your dog’s first time. Some dogs enjoy teeth cleaning more than others.
To start the process smoothly, lift your dog’s lip and smear the toothpaste on their teeth and gums. This will give your dog an idea of what is about to happen.
Now follow these steps:
- Begin by focusing on their canine teeth and large cheek teeth, as these areas tend to accumulate the most plaque and tartar.
- Afterwards, pay attention to the gums. Many pet owners mistakenly concentrate solely on the teeth, but it’s crucial to clean the gums as well, as bacteria can accumulate there.
- Brush the area using slow, gentle strokes for about 30 seconds per side.
- Avoid forcefully opening your dog’s mouth, as this can cause discomfort and potential harm to your dog.
5. Consider Additional Oral Hygiene Options
While brushing is the most effective way to clean your dog’s teeth, it may not be possible for every dog. Some dogs may have a harder time getting used to the process or may have oral health issues that require additional care.
In these cases, there are alternative options such as dental chews, oral care water additives, and oral gels that can help maintain your dog’s oral hygiene. However, it’s important to note that these options should not replace regular brushing.
Ask the experts
A huge thank you to our veterinarian, Dr Candice Cooper from Gardens Pet Clinic, for sharing her knowledge with us, for this article.
Start Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth Today!
After you’ve read this article about how to clean your dog’s teeth at home, it’s time to take action! If you need help choosing a dog toothbrush and toothpaste, visit us at Absolute Pets. We have a wide selection of dental care products specifically designed for dogs of all sizes and breeds!