Cleaning and Brushing Dog Teeth

Did you know most dogs show signs of dental disease by age three? This is a common but preventable problem caused by the build up of plaque on dogs’ teeth. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, leading to more severe issues like gingivitis, periodontal disease and tooth decay.

•    Plaque is a soft, sticky, colourless film that builds up on teeth. It can be tricky to spot at first, but as plaque accumulates, it begins to appear more yellow. 
•    Tartar is mineralised plaque, which makes it easy to spot but hard to remove without a professional dental cleaning by your veterinarian. It often appears as a yellow or brownish build up on the surface of dogs’ teeth.
Dental disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth. Bacteria from the dog's mouth can enter the bloodstream and affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. That’s why proactive dog dental care is so important.
 

Recognising the signs of dental disease in dogs early can prevent long-term problems. 
Here’s what to watch for:
•    Bad Breath: If your dog’s breath stinks or they have a persistent foul odour, it’s likely caused by plaque or gum disease.
•    Discoloured Teeth: Yellow or brown stains on teeth often indicate tartar.
•    Swollen Gums: Red, inflamed gums are a sign of gingivitis in dogs.
•    Difficulty Chewing: Hesitation to eat or chew could mean your dog is experiencing pain from dental disease.
•    Drooling or Pawing at the Mouth: These behaviours might indicate dental discomfort.
•    Visible Damage: If you notice rotting or broken teeth, it’s time to consult a vet.
Addressing these dog dental symptoms early can save your pup from unnecessary pain and costly treatments down the line.
 

Keeping your dog’s teeth clean doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right approach, you can make it part of your routine and ensure your dog has healthy teeth.
•    Daily Brushing: Brushing regularly is the best way to maintain clean and white dog teeth. It helps to remove plaque before it hardens into tartar. Use a dog toothbrush and specially formulated dog toothpaste. Never use human toothpaste, as it can be toxic to dogs.
•    Dental Chews: Providing dental chews for dogs, such as OraVet^® Chews, can help reduce tartar build up and freshen their breath. 
•    Dietary Support: Feeding high-quality food designed for dog dental care.
•    Regular Vet Visits: Professional cleanings and routine check-ups ensure any issues are caught early.

Brushing your dog’s teeth is the cornerstone of effective dental cleaning. While it might seem daunting, these steps make it manageable:
1.    Choose the Right Tools: Invest in a soft-bristled dog toothbrush, finger brush, and dog-friendly toothpaste in flavours your pup will love.
2.    Introduce Slowly: Let your dog sniff the toothpaste and get comfortable with the toothbrush. Gradually work up to brushing.
3.    Use Gentle Techniques: Lift your dog’s lips and brush in small circular motions, focusing on the gumline. Pay extra attention to areas where plaque on dog teeth tends to accumulate.
4.    Stay Consistent: Aim to brush your dog’s teeth daily or at least three times a week for optimal results.
Start brushing your puppy's teeth early to build a positive association with dental care.
 

If brushing isn’t an option, there are other ways to maintain dog dental care and freshen your dog’s breath:

•    What They Are: Specially designed dental chews for dogs that help clean teeth and massage gums while satisfying their natural urge to chew.
•    How They Help: Dental chews reduce plaque on dogs’ teeth and freshen breath. They’re a simple yet effective addition to your routine.

•    What They Are: Toys with textured surfaces that clean teeth as your dog chews.
•    Best Options: Look for dog teeth cleaning toys or puppy teething toys that are safe and durable.
While these methods can supplement brushing, they shouldn’t replace it entirely.