Your pet may be in need of dog dental care. Does he have that typical bad doggie breath? If you do notice a horrible smell when he breathes into your face, chances are that it may be a clue that your dog may need dental care.
In the past pet owners believed that they did not have to do anything to keep their dog’s teeth and gums healthy. They believed that nature would take care of the dog’s teeth naturally. Gradually commercial pet companies introduced hard dog biscuits that would help clean your dog’s teeth. Since those beginnings, it has become more well known that dogs may need help in the teeth cleaning and breath area.

Dog dental care is one aspect of your overall pet’s health care. Dogs with healthy teeth and gums will have overall healthy mouths, which will help them to live longer and happier lives. Although having bad dental care may not decrease your pet’s overall life expectancy, it could cause him pain and discomfort and may even lead to him losing one or several teeth. And, if you didn’t know, having a serious infection in the mouth may even lead to heart and kidney disease.
As in humans, a dog with a healthy mouth will have better smelling breath. Bad breath can be a sign that the dog may be having trouble in his mouth. And, chances are that you as a pet owner may not even notice unless there is a really serious problem. You may find that your dog cannot chew on one side, or possibly isn’t even eating because he is in so much pain. If you notice this happening, it could be a sign that your dog has a toothache or some other kind of infection in his mouth.
Bad breath is caused by the plaque and tartar that builds up on your pet’s teeth. If these elements are not removed from the teeth an infection in the mouth can occur. Getting your vet to remove the plaque and tarter that has been built up on your pet’s teeth will help avoid the bacteria that may be causing gum disease.
Just as with humans, dogs can get cavities in their teeth. Veterinarians of today have noted that there has been a rise in dog cavities, probably due to more of the sugary dog treats available on the market today. Check the labels of the dog treats you buy for your dog to help reduce this threat. And, only feed him made-for-dog treats.
Although past pet owners never did it, it is a good idea to brush your dog’s teeth regularly. If you start your dog dental care program when your pet is young, you should have no problems getting him to submit to regular teeth brushing. It is a good idea to try to brush your dog’s teeth daily, but even brushing ever other day will help keep the plaque build-up under control.
You can get toothbrushes and toothpaste made especially for dogs. It is important to use toothpaste formulated especially for dogs because human toothpaste can upset your pet’s stomach. Also, toothpaste made for dogs will have a more pleasing flavor for him. Pet toothbrushes are softer than human ones, shaped slightly differently and are generally smaller. You can also use sponge cleaners instead of a toothbrush, which consist of small sponges attached to a handle. You can generally obtain these items through your veterinarian or at pet stores.
1. Start by getting your dog used to you putting your fingers in his mouth. Dip your finger in beef bouillon or gravy and gently rub onto his gums and around his teeth. Let him lick the liquid off of your fingers. After doing this a few times, your dog will look forward to you handling his mouth.
2. Next, do this same procedure using a piece of gauze (also dipped in the bouillon). Gently rub the gauze on and around his teeth and gums. Again, after a few sessions your dog will be used to it and should enjoy the procedure.
3. You can now start to introduce the toothbrush or sponge cleaner using the same steps. Start by dipping the toothbrush into the bouillon and gently rotating it inside the dog’s mouth. When he is comfortable with this step, you can start using the doggie toothpaste. Let the dog taste the toothpaste first and let him lick it off the brush. Your dog will like most of the products available that have been made for pets because they have been formulated to suit most dogs’ tastes.
4. Now you can begin brushing his teeth. Lift the flaps on his mouth gently and brush the teeth just as you would a human’s. Try to get right down to the gum line. Do not make the sessions too long at first, even if you can only do one side at one session. And, remember to talk softly to him and praise him frequently.
There are also toys and chews that you can purchase that will help in your dog dental care program. You can use products such as Plaque Attacker dental toys, rope toys or rawhide chews. You do need to be careful, though, not to use toys that are too abrasive that may wear down your dog’s teeth, or toys that are too hard that he could possibly break one of his teeth on. It is always a good idea to be around to supervise your dog when he is chewing on a toy.
A final note on dog dental care: It may be necessary for some dogs to get braces on their teeth. Some dogs have problems in this area and need their teeth straightened enough so that their mouth opens and closes correctly. It may be necessary for your dog to get orthodontic work done on a few teeth or even have a full set of braces. Consult your vet if you feel this may be a problem area for your dog.