16 Aug Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth: 5 Tips from a Veterinary Dentist
Caring for your pet’s teeth is a crucial part of keeping them healthy. But even the most dedicated pet owners struggle to get their pets to tolerate tooth brushing. It’s a common frustration, but learning how to make it a more manageable routine can improve your pet’s health and your peace of mind.
Why Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth Matters
Tooth brushing is essential for preventing dental diseases like gingivitis and periodontal disease, some of the most common conditions seen in pets. These diseases can lead to pain, tooth loss, and even more severe health issues if left untreated.
Regular brushing removes plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—from the teeth, helping to prevent these conditions from developing. But if you’ve ever tried to brush your pet’s teeth, it might seem like an impossible task. This is where understanding the right techniques and being very, very patient comes in.
Here are a few pet tooth brushing tips to help you get started.
Five Steps to Make Brushing Your Pet’s Teeth Easier
Step 1: Start Slowly and Build Trust
Begin by getting your pet accustomed to having their mouth touched. You can start by gently lifting their lips and rubbing your finger along their gums. Offer praise and treats to make the experience more positive.
Step 2: Choose the Right Tools
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for kids, and enzymatic toothpaste made for cats or dogs. Human toothpaste can be harmful to pets, so be sure to pick one that’s designed for dogs or cats. But a pediatric toothbrush will be soft and just the right size for your pet’s mouth.
Step 3: Make it Routine
Establish a regular brushing schedule. Ideally, brushing should be done daily, but even brushing every other day can provide significant benefits. Consistency helps your pet become more familiar with the process, reducing their anxiety over time.
Step 4: Be Patient and Positive
Patience is key! Some pets may take weeks or even months to fully accept tooth brushing. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or extra playtime, to reward your pet after each session.
Step 5: Seek Professional Help When Needed
If you’ve tried everything and your pet still resists, or if you notice signs of oral discomfort, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. They can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you on the best care plan for your pet’s dental health.
Why Pets Resist Tooth Brushing
A lot of pets simply aren’t comfortable with someone poking around in their mouths. They might pull away, close their mouths tightly, or even try to escape. This resistance is often due to fear, discomfort, or unfamiliarity with the process. Some pets may have had negative experiences in the past, while others may be sensitive about dental injuries or oral lesions that you can’t see.
It’s also possible that your pet is experiencing pain or discomfort from tooth decay or gum disease. If your pet is showing signs of oral pain—like pawing at their mouth, changes in how or what they eat, or bad breath—it could be due to dental health problems. A visit to a specialty practice for an evaluation by a board-certified veterinary dentist is recommended.
When to Consult a Specialist
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, brushing at home isn’t enough. Just like us, pets need regular professional dental care. A veterinary dentist has the expertise to perform comprehensive cleanings, treat dental diseases, and provide guidance on maintaining your pet’s oral health at home.
Remember, your regular veterinarian is also an excellent resource for initial advice and care. But for more complex dental issues, a specialty practice offers the advanced care your pet needs.
Board-Certified Veterinary Dentists in Montana
Brushing your pet’s teeth can be challenging, but with patience and the right approach, it’s possible to make it a routine part of their care. Regular brushing not only keeps their teeth and gums healthy, but also prevents serious health problems. If you’re struggling with brushing or suspect your pet has a dental issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a veterinary specialist. Your pet’s health is worth the effort.
Photo by Mirzat on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 8/16/24.