Guide to a Daily Canine Oral Care Routine

Poor canine oral care can lead to a number of complications for dogs, including gum disease and tooth loss. Creating a daily routine for canine oral care is important for preventing dental complications for your beloved pet. While it is best to begin dental care while a dog is young, it is never too late to start caring for your dog's teeth. By taking a few extra minutes everyday to care for your dog's teeth, you will save your dog the pain from dental complications and your wallet from the expense of veterinary care.

Plaque and Tarter

Plaque and tarter buildup is among the leading cause of dental complications for dogs. Plaque and tarter accumulation can lead to gum disease and even tooth loss. To prevent plaque and tarter buildup, your dog's teeth should be brushed every day using a pet toothpaste and a pet toothbrush. Never use human toothpastes when brushing your dog's teeth and always make the experience enjoyable for you and your pet.

Most pet toothpastes include ingredients to fight tarter and plaque buildup. If your pet already has buildup or gum disease, your vet may need to prescribe a special toothpaste for your dog. There are also pet safe dental rinses available to assist with caring for your pet's teeth. Pet toothbrushes, sponges, and pads can also be used to clean your pet's teeth.

Daily Evaluation

Your daily canine oral care routine should consist of a full mouth evaluation as well. Check your dog's mouth by lifting the lips to view the front, back, and sides of the mouth for any signs of complications. Signs of possible complications include red or swollen gums, bleeding gums, and obvious pain. An increase in saliva and broken or missing teeth are signs you should head to the veterinarian. If anything appear unusual or your dog becomes reluctant to chew, you should take your dog to the vet for an evaluation.

Daily Care

Daily oral care for your dog should also include the proper food. Your dog should not consume sticky foods, sweets, or table scraps. Most clinical studies show that feeding your dog veterinary dentist approved foods will cause less dental complications for your pet than other foods. Foods that are specially designed to fight tarter and plaque buildup are beneficial for your dog's teeth as well.

Providing your dog with the correct toys daily will make a big difference when it comes to your dog's teeth. Chew toys are great for removing plaque and tarter buildup from the teeth. Rope toys, rawhide toys, and specially made dental toys are great for promoting your dog's dental health.

References:
"Guide to Dog Teeth" VetInfo
"Caring for Your Dogs Teeth" DogDentalCare
"Home Dental Care" PetEducation