How to Brush Your Dog's Teeth

Brushing your dog's teeth is a simple task, granted that your dog is cooperative and that you have the patience. It is much easier if you teach your dog at an early age so that you are able to accomplish the task when he/she is older. By this, I mean that you should begin to play with their mouth and get them used to you holding them down to play with the mouth. You can even start using the toothpaste at a younger age to get them used to the taste of it. Typically, what I do is hold my dog down and put one leg over his body to hold him down. Next, I lift up his top lip and brush the teeth using the CET fingerbrush and enzymatic toothpaste. The toothpaste that you are using is not an abrasive formula like what humans use. Instead, it is composed of enzymes that break down bacteria and prevent plaque from developing in the mouth.

Prior to brushing, I will sometimes use a gauze pad and wipe the teeth of any debris/food that may be on the teeth. Once that is done, I will then begin brushing. So, once the first side is finished I will flip him to the opposite side and repeat the same thing. Total time to brush the teeth should take you about 5 minutes (if your dog is cooperative). You need not spend too much time on the bottom teeth as the top teeth occlude over the bottom teeth. The top teeth in turn clean the bottom teeth through chewing action. While you are brushing the teeth, you can brush the gum line as well. This will help strengthen the tissue and prevent gingivitis in the long run. Once you are done, the enzyme toothpaste will begin to break down bacteria and prevent it from repopulating in the mouth for 24 hours. Once those 24 hours have passed and you miss brushing the teeth, the bacteria will repopulate and begin to form plaque on the teeth. Therefore, it is essential that you continue to brush your dog's teeth every night. If you have 2 minutes of your time to brush your own teeth, then take the time to brush your dog's teeth because they are unable to do so themselves.

There are other options for cleaning the teeth as well. Hills Prescription Diet T/D is a specialized food designed to help prevent plaque buildup in the oral cavity. The food is designed with plant fibers that make the food kibble act as a sponge so to speak. When the dog bites into the kibble, it acts as a squeegee and wipes the plaque off of the tooth. There is also oral rinse and treats that help kill bacteria and prevent tartar accumulation. If you consult with your veterinarian, they will guide you in the right direction and show you how to properly clean your dog's teeth.