Brushing Your Pets Teeth
Health Tips
Why Brush?
As with people, brushing teeth is the most effective way to prevent dental disease in pets. Many people do not brush their pet’s teeth because it is difficult or frustrating. We want to help make it easier for you with some tips. Few pets love having their teeth cleaned, but most with time can learn to tolerate it. Some pets learn that brushing time is time spent one-on-one with the person they love. The reward for you is healthier pet & less money spent on dental cleanings.
Dental disease has been shown to cause pain and discomfort and can shorten an animal’s life span.
Dental plaque is a soft material that forms on teeth within hours of cleaning. This material is made up of bacteria, saliva, oral debris and occasionally cells from the gum line. If plaque is not removed regularly it progresses to tartar-the hard discoloration that can be found on teeth. Plaque can be removed by brushing, tartar cannot. When this bacteria buildup is left over time infection begins to spread to the gum line. This leads to infection of the gums or gingivitis. If gingivitis is not treated it can lead to infection of the bone that holds the teeth in place or “periodontal disease”. In advanced cases periodontal disease can lead to problems in the whole body including the heart, liver and kidneys.
How Do I Brush?
First, decide who will be in charge of brushing. If the whole family is involved make sure everyone is doing everything the same way. Kids, if old enough, can be very helpful in daily brushing. This can also teach kids the responsibility of pet ownership.
The ideal position for the brush is at a 45 degree angle on to the tooth. Brushing should be done in circular motion. Focus on each quadrant of the mouth (right upper, left upper, right lower, left lower) for 30 seconds.
This describes the perfect brushing- probably not what is going to happen in real life. Remember what basically needs to be done and do the best you can. Only the outer surface of the teeth needs to be brushed. The tongue on animals does a great job at keeping the inner surface of the teeth clean. Try to get all of the teeth-especially the big guys in the back and do not forget the little guys up front.
Are You Kidding Me? My Pet Will Never Let Me Do That!
Most pets will not allow a full brushing the first time. If this is the situation, you will need to let your pet become accustomed to the feel of having their mouth touched. Do everything for short periods of time- a little bit every day and slowly add time as your pet becomes more comfortable. Follow your pet’s pace- this may be fast for some and slow for others.
Start by gently petting the muzzle and mouth until your pet becomes comfortable with this.
Next, gently rub your pet’s gums.
Allow your pet to lick toothpaste off of the toothbrush. You can try different flavors to see what your pet likes best. Never use human toothpaste - fluoride is toxic to animals
The next step is to try brushing for just a few strokes.
Increase the amount that you brush a little at a time until you are brushing the whole mouth.
Try to avoid anything stressful during this process--this means avoid holding your pet in place. If your pet is moving away from you, try backing up into a corner. Following a routine of same time, same place can reduce stress for some pets.
The most important thing you can do is praise your pet often during this process. We want your pet to learn that having the teeth brushed is not torture for bad pets. It is a good thing for good pets!
Small dogs & cats may enjoy sitting in the lap to cuddle during brushing. All pets should receive rewards when the brushing is done. This can be praise, playing a favorite game, giving a favorite toy, or even giving a dental appropriate treat.
