You probably don’t think about your dog’s oral hygiene as often as you should. Maybe it’s because you assume they have a good enough immune system to fend off bacteria and other nasties that might lurk on their teeth. Or perhaps it’s because, let’s be honest here, dog mouths aren’t exactly pleasant sights to behold. However, there are several good reasons to get your dog used to having its teeth brushed regularly: not only does red gingivitis (gingivitis being the swelling of the gums) affect around 70% of dogs at some point in their lives; but it also makes them more susceptible to dental disease and infections of the oral cavity, which can also cause secondary infections in other parts of the body like the kidneys and heart.
What’s The Deal With Dog Gingivitis?
If you have a dog, it’s likely you’ve heard of gingivitis. Gingivitis is a form of gum disease that causes the gums around your dog’s teeth to become inflamed, red, and swollen. If left untreated, this condition can cause the gums to pull away from the teeth, allowing bacteria to enter the bloodstream and cause a variety of health issues. Gum disease is extremely common in both cats and dogs, but it is also very easy to prevent and treat. Unlike humans, dogs don’t brush their teeth, so they rely completely on their owners to keep their gums healthy. Gingivitis is a bacterial infection of the gums. It is caused by plaque, which is a combination of food particles, bacteria and minerals. The plaque forms a sticky substance that attaches to the teeth and gums. If not removed daily, the plaque turns into tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a veterinarian or a professional groomer. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which is irreversible and can result in the loss of teeth.
You Can Help Reduce Your Dog’s Risk Of Gingivitis
As we’ve already discussed, bacteria will collect on the teeth and gums if you don’t take steps to remove it through brushing and flossing. Fortunately, however, there are many things you can do to reduce the risk of your dog contracting gum disease, such as: – Feeding a High-Quality Diet – Feeding a high-quality diet can help reduce plaque and tartar build-up. Avoid feeding kibble as this can cause dogs to have extra saliva, which makes it more difficult to keep their teeth clean. Feeding a raw diet is a great way to reduce plaque and tartar build-up. – Using Dog Treats – Rawhides and other chews can help to clean plaque and food particles from teeth. Brushing teeth daily with a pet toothpaste is also recommended. – Regular Brushing And Flossing – Brushing teeth daily and flossing once a week can help to remove plaque that would otherwise cause gum inflammation and bacteria build-up.
How Often Should You Brush Your Dog’s Teeth?
It’s been said that brushing a dog’s teeth is easier than brushing your own teeth, but they should be brushed daily – just like our teeth. You’ll know when it’s time to brush your dog’s teeth when you see plaque and tartar buildup. Brush Tip: It’s More About Technique Than Equipment A dog owner who’s never brushed their dog’s teeth before might feel a bit intimidated by all the gadgets on the market for dog dental hygiene. However, all you really need is a soft-bristled toothbrush (ideally one designed for animals) and a small amount of pet-grade toothpaste. It’s worth noting, however, that not all dog toothpastes are created equal. Some are made with fluoride, for example, which is important to help reduce the risk of gingivitis.
It Takes Time To Build Good Habits – Be Patient!
Like most things in life, it won’t come naturally to your dog to sit still while you brush its teeth. Getting your dog used to having its teeth brushed several times a week is the first step in creating good habits. Keep in mind, though, that it may take a few months to condition your dog to sit still while you brush its teeth. There are a few techniques you can use to speed up the process: – Use treats: Rewarding your dog for good behaviour is the quickest way to get it used to sitting still for a teeth brushing. – Get them used to the sensation: Start by blowing air on their teeth and gums to get them used to the sensation of having their teeth brushed. – Be gentle: Be gentle with your dog while brushing its teeth and don’t apply too much pressure.
Conclusion
Getting your dog used to having its teeth brushed regularly is a great way to keep its teeth and gums healthy in the long term. Regular teeth brushing is an important part of dog dental hygiene and can help to prevent gingivitis and other dental problems such as cavities. Owners should brush their dog’s teeth once a week or after each meal depending on how often the dog eats. It is best to use dog-friendly toothpaste with fluoride. Brushing your dog’s teeth can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s an important part of their oral hygiene. Brushing your dog’s teeth will remove plaque and tartar and reduce their risk of dental disease.