Brushing your Pet's Teeth

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How To Brush Your Pet’s Teeth

Prevention of dental disease should be included as part of your pet’s overall preventive medicine program, just like vaccinations.

Tooth brushing doesn't happen overnight.
It requires training, just like “sit,” “stay” and “come.”

First, select a convenient time when you and your pet are both relaxed. For the first few days, simply hold your pet as you normally do when petting him/her. Gently stroke the outside of your pet’s cheeks with your finger for a minute or two. Then, after a few days, place a small amount of toothpaste on your finger and let your pet sample the flavor. Pets seem to like he flavors of some pet toothpastes, and soon will consider it a treat.

Next, introduce your pet to a toothbrush or finger brush. Place a small amount of toothpaste on the brush and gently brush one tooth with a slow circular motion. Gradually increase the number of teeth brushed until you have built up to 30 seconds of brushing per side. It is important to reward your pet with a healthy treat and plenty of praise after every step of this process. Soon, both you and your pet will look forward to the time you spend together during this important health care procedure.

• The brush should be rotated in a circular fashion at a 45 degree angle with emphasis on the stroke away from the gingiva.
• As with any other routine, it’s best to begin a dental care program when pets are young puppies or kittens.
• Follow-up home care with regular complete dental cleaning by your veterinarian.

For more information about pet dental care consult your veterinarian. 
Ask how you can get on the path to better pet dental health.