Learn how to enhance your dog dental health by using these suggestions
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According to American Veterinary Dental College, most canines show signs of periodontal disease before they turn 3. Many pet parents overlook the need for their dog’s dental hygiene. However, just like humans, healthy teeth and gums are vital for your dog’s well-being. Here are six tips to improve your dog’s dental health.
Regular Brushing
Unlike humans, dogs cannot brush and floss their teeth. In addition, a slightly different approach is needed to clean a dog’s teeth. Follow this procedure for the optimal dental health of your dog:
- Gently lift the dog’s upper lip and angle the bristles of the toothbrush until they touch the gum line.
- Hold the toothbrush at an angle of 45 degrees and brush in small circles from top to bottom.
- Brush for two minutes and try to reach all surfaces.
Use an Oral Rinse
- Pet rinses work well for dogs and do not contain fluoride, sweeteners, or alcohol. They are usually labeled as dental care water additives and can be mixed with a dog’s drinking water. These are also known as oral health care solutions. Alternatively, oral rinses can be used.
Oral rinses are gently applied on a dog’s gumline by dabbing the teeth and gums with a tissue. Pair them with regular brushing to keep plaque buildup at bay. Regardless of the type of oral rinse you buy, use them regularly according to the instructions.
Dental Health Treats
- Dental health treats are specifically formulated to reduce plaque-causing bacteria activated by crunching and chewing. In addition, these dental health treats help develop stronger jaw muscles. Dog dental treats are available in different forms, including chews, crunchy bits, sticks, etc.
Furthermore, they come in various sizes for small, medium, and large dogs. This allows dog owners to pick the right size based on their needs. However, monitoring your dog after giving them the treats is essential to see if they are okay with chewing them. Read the label of the product you intend to buy. Purchase only those dental treats approved by Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC).
Observe What Your Dog Eats
- Dogs can put anything in their mouth, including things that could be harmful to them. Sharp objects with jagged edges, such as rocks, wood, etc., can damage gums and cause tooth fractures.
Therefore, it is essential to monitor what your dog eats. Keep your floors and yard clear of debris, sharp objects, and other risky items to help reduce the risk of tooth chipping and fractures.
Feed Your Dog Dry Food
- The dog’s diet affects his dental health, overall health, and well-being. Experts recommend feeding your dog dry foods to prevent dental health issues. Compared to wet food, crunchy dog food doesn’t stick readily to teeth. On the other hand, wet foods remain stuck to teeth for longer and promote bacterial growth.
Consult with a vet before switching dog food to get some valuable recommendations. Veterinarians suggest dental diet formulas designed to meet nutritional needs while reducing the risk of dental health problems.
Professional Teeth Cleaning for Pets
Regular teeth cleaning sessions are crucial for optimal dental care. Veterinarians use techniques such as aroma therapy, CBD products, sound therapy, etc., to keep your pet calm during the procedure. The veterinarian starts the teeth cleaning session with a short evaluation to check the dog’s tooth and gum health. Dental health issues such as bleeding gums can be detected during this time, and the session can be tailored accordingly.
For professional teeth cleaning of your pet, book an appointment with Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We perform a range of dental services to help keep your pet’s mouth looking and feeling great. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available; call us at 434-971-9800.
