02 Sep How to Find Safe Dental Products for Pets
When it comes to your pet’s dental care, the array of products on the market can be overwhelming. From toothbrushes to water additives to chew toys, pet owners have many options. However, not all products are created equal, and some may even do more harm than good. Choosing safe and effective pet dental products is crucial for keeping their teeth and gums healthy.
Choosing a Toothbrush for Daily Home Care
Simply put, pediatric toothbrushes (designed for young children) are our brush of choice at Missoula Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery. The head of the brush is small and the bristles are extra soft. Silicone finger brushes will not reach the spaces between teeth, and dog-specific toothbrushes are often loaded with hard bristles that are uncomfortable and even abrasive for the sensitive gums of your pets. Best of all, pediatric toothbrushes are easy to find and inexpensive to buy and replace.
Why Water Additives Don’t Work
Water additives are often marketed as an easy way to maintain your pet’s oral health. These products claim to reduce plaque and freshen breath simply by being added to your pet’s water bowl. While this may sound convenient, the truth is that many of these additives have not been scientifically proven to be effective.
For a dental care product to be truly beneficial, it needs to undergo rigorous testing and peer-reviewed clinical trials. Unfortunately, many water additives on the market lack this level of validation. They offer no guarantee that they’re actually helping your pet’s dental health. In some cases, they might not even reach the teeth and gums in a meaningful way.
If you’re considering a water additive or other digestible home care dental product, take care. Look for products that have been approved by reputable sources like the Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC). VOHC.org offers a list of products that have undergone thorough testing and have been proven to meet high standards of efficacy and safety. This resource can help you make informed decisions about the products you use for your pet.
Preventing Dental Injuries from Bones and Hard Chew Toys
One of the most common concerns in pet dentistry is the use of bones and hard chew toys. While it’s natural to assume that these items can help clean your pet’s teeth. However, some can actually cause significant dental injuries.
Bones, antlers, and other hard chews can cause tooth fractures, which are not only painful but can also require costly treatment. Fractured teeth often need to be extracted or repaired through complex and expensive procedures. This is why it’s crucial to be cautious about the chew products you give your pet.
Instead of bones or other hard items, consider using softer chew toys or dental treats that are designed to be both safe and effective. The VOHC only certifies pet dental products that will reduce plaque and tartar buildup while still being gentle on teeth.
Where to Find Safe and Effective Dental Products for Pets
With so many dental care products available, it’s understandable to feel uncertain about which ones are safe and effective. That’s where resources like VOHC.org come in. The VOHC provides a list of products that have been proven to benefit your pet’s oral health without causing harm. These products have undergone peer-reviewed clinical trials, so you can trust that they’re backed by science.
If you’re ever unsure about a product or have any concerns about your pet’s dental health, consulting a specialist is a wise decision. A specialty dental practice like ours can provide expert guidance on the best products and practices for your pet. We can also address any existing dental issues and help you create a comprehensive dental care plan tailored to your pet’s needs.
The Importance of Professional Guidance
Your primary care veterinarian is a valuable resource for initial evaluations and advice on maintaining your pet’s dental health. However, for more complex issues or concerns, seeking the expertise of a board-certified veterinary dentist right here in Montana can ensure that your pet receives the highest standard of care.
Conclusion
Taking care of your pet’s dental health is an important part of ensuring their overall wellbeing. While there are many pet dental products on the market, it’s important to only choose the ones that are safe and effective. By avoiding potentially harmful items like bones and selecting VOHC-approved products, you can keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy.
If you have any concerns about your pet’s dental care products or about their oral health, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the specialists at Missoula Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery. We can provide you with professional guidance, and we can also provide with the dental care your pet needs to stay healthy and happy. Remember, your pet’s dental health is worth the extra attention.
Photo by Jonathan Göhner on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 9/2/24.