Pet dental health is just as important as human dental health. Just as you try to take care of your own, by brushing your teeth and performing daily and routine follow-ups, your dog's and cat's teeth also need it.
The main factor that can lead to your dog getting a gum infection or even stomach problems is its mouth. If your dog has healthy teeth, it can avoid many of the aforementioned problems.
The mouth is usually the area where dogs or cats can contract the most diseases. Even dogs tend to accumulate a lot of tartar in their mouths, due to kibble and diet. Thus, dental care is very important and should be done routinely for your pet's health.
How to clean your dog's mouth?
Just as people brush their teeth, we can also brush our dog's teeth. There are special thimble-shaped brushes, where you put your finger in and massage their teeth and gums. Laia Custodi, veterinarian at Clínica Quevedog in Madrid, advises "using these types of brushes because it is the best way to apply pressure and clean the teeth, without harming your dog." There are also other longer brushes, but "it all depends on your handling and the facilities your pet provides," she adds regarding the other brushes.
It should be washed with a special toothpaste for pets; human toothpaste cannot be used.
It is recommended to do it after each meal, but that is more complicated due to time constraints. Laia emphasizes that "it should be done at least once a day." Also, you should know when to do it, when the dog is calm and you see that you won't bother it too much.
What other products help take care of dental health?
Regarding other products that help take care of oral health, it is always recommended to talk to your veterinarian for advice. Laia Custodi, veterinarian at Quevedog, has spoken with ARISTOPET and advised us on these other products that can help take care of your dog's dental health:
- Enzymatic algae: these are added to food and help clean their teeth. This is done once a day.
- Dental treats and chews. These work very well, but they should not be overused, as they are still empty calories.
- Products in water. Dogs usually don't like these types of products much because they change the taste of the water and dogs don't want to drink it.
Dental cleaning
Dental cleaning allows for a deeper cleaning of your dog's teeth. Many owners wonder when they should have their dog's teeth professionally cleaned. It is recommended that this decision always be made by your veterinarian. Laia advised us that "the fewer cleanings, the better, but if your dog has a lot of tartar, it should be done to prevent diseases."
I hope these tips help you take care of your dog's oral health. In addition to avoiding some health problems, this care also prevents your dog's bad breath.
It is always recommended to talk to your trusted veterinarian for advice.
Laia Custodi, registered Veterinarian in Madrid
Clínica Veterinaria Quevedog
Madrid 28015