More Than Fresh Breath
Dental care is one of the most overlooked parts of a dog's health, but it plays a huge role in their overall well-being!
Plaque and tartar can build up quickly, leading to bad breath, painful gum disease, tooth loss, and even allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream and affect organs like the heart and kidneys.
The good news is that a little preventative care goes a long way!
Brushing your dog's teeth regularly with a dog-safe toothpaste is the ultimate goal to keep those pearly whites bright and healthy. My favorite all-in-one dental starter kit is great, coming with a top vet recommended toothpaste, plus a brush and finger brush. It really has everything you’ll need to create a good dental hygiene routine with your pet —> https://amzn.to/4vKFTHZ
With regular brushings, also adding dental chews, approved dental treats, and routine veterinary dental exams can help keep their mouth healthier between cleanings.
Don't wait until your dog has bad breath or stops eating before thinking about dental care. A healthy mouth means a happier, more comfortable pet, and a few minutes of dental care today can help prevent painful and costly problems down the road!
In terms of how to do the brushing, here’s some guidance.
Use a soft-bristled toothbrush (or a finger brush if your dog tolerates it better, though a toothbrush usually cleans more effectively).
Hold the brush at about a 45-degree angle toward the gumline. This helps the bristles gently clean where plaque accumulates most.
Use small, gentle circular or back-and-forth strokes.
Don't scrub hard. Plaque is soft and comes off with gentle brushing. Excessive pressure can irritate the gums.
Focus on the outside surfaces of the teeth. Most dogs don't need the inside surfaces brushed because their tongue naturally helps keep those cleaner.
Only use toothpaste designed for dogs. Human toothpaste often contains ingredients like fluoride or xylitol that can be harmful if swallowed.
Lift the lip instead of opening the mouth wide.
Daily brushing is ideal, but even 3–4 times a week provides significantly more benefit than brushing only occasionally.
If you ever notice very red gums, loose teeth, heavy brown tartar, bleeding that happens every time the teeth are brushed, or a foul odor, I’d recommend a veterinary dental exam rather than trying to brush more aggressively. Brushing helps prevent disease, but it can't remove hardened tartar once it's formed.
Now go forth and brush on!
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you!