Pets are family, and keeping them healthy is a priority. In addition to making sure that they get regular meals and ample exercise, your pet’s oral health is just as important to it as yours is to you. It may seem like a crazy and daunting task to do, but brushing your pet’s teeth consistently will improve their health and happiness for years to come.
Why You Should Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
Pets are susceptible to the same oral diseases that we are, including cavities, tooth decay, and periodontal disease. Lack of oral care due to poor diet or poor oral hygiene are the primary reasons why pets develop dental problems.
How To Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
To brush your pet’s teeth, you’ll need gauze and pet-friendly toothpaste to start (human toothpaste contains toxic ingredients for pets). If your pet is ready to handle a toothbrush, you can get a pet-friendly toothbrush made specifically for their teeth too, since a human toothbrush can damage their teeth and gums.
First, you need to know if your pet is okay with you brushing their teeth! It may take a few weeks to build trust with your pet, since many are uncomfortable having their mouths touched. Try massaging around their mouths to start, slowly working your way to massaging their gums over time. Then introduce them to the feeling of wet gauze or gauze with a small amount of toothpaste. Eventually, you will be able to brush your pet’s teeth similarly to how you would your own. Just remember to be gentle and go in soft, slow circles!
When to Brush Your Pet’s Teeth
Aim to brush your pet’s teeth once a day, if not a few times a week. Your pet’s diet and activity level play a role in how often you should brush their teeth, too. If you’re pet eats a carbohydrate-rich diet, chances are they’ll need their teeth brushed more often to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. If they are chewers, they are cleaning their teeth on their own so you may not have to brush them as often.
Brushing your pet’s teeth may seem like an unnecessary task, but don’t skip it. It will keep them healthier longer and create a deeper bond between you two. Like any responsible owner, don’t forget to take care of yourself! Schedule a cleaning and examination with your dentist twice a year to make sure that your teeth are healthy. Contact our friendly team at LM Family Dentistry to schedule an appointment today!
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