Dental Disease Prevention Starts at Home!

Authored by Dr. Hope Jankunas

Dental health is an important part of your pet’s total wellbeing because the condition of the teeth and gums has an effect on other areas of the body as well.  For example, infection in the mouth can spread and cause damage to the heart, kidneys and liver.  Pain in the mouth affects your pet’s ability to eat, groom, and play, and can even lead to aggression.  Unfortunately for our pets, indications of early disease are subtle or non-existent.  By the time your pet shows symptoms, the disease may have already progressed to the point where a dental extraction is necessary.  So how can the tooth be saved?

Pet Parents play a vital role in prevention

Brushing the teeth daily is the best way to prevent dental disease.  This makes sense because it’s what we humans do for our own teeth, but when it comes to our pets, it’s easier said than done.  With patience and practice, you can become a pro at brushing your pet’s teeth!  If not, there are other tools that can be used at home to prevent dental disease.  And if at home dental care is not an option, professional dental cleanings with your vet can be done as often as every six months if needed.

Brushing is as easy as 1, 2, 3…

Take it slow. If your pet has never had their teeth brushed before, it’s best to proceed step-wise.  When introducing a toothbrush for the first time, encourage them to lick it with a dab of flavored toothpaste, peanut butter, or whipped cream.  If your pet backs away, don’t force it—their participation must be voluntary for this to be a pleasant experience.  Once they accept the brush, gradually progress to touching the teeth and then to brushing the outer surfaces of the teeth.

Use the right products. Pet-specific enzymatic toothpastes are safe for cats and dogs, and come in many delicious flavors that they will enjoy.  The paste can be applied to the teeth using a veterinary toothbrush, soft pediatric toothbrush, or silicone finger brush.  Household items like gauze pads or Q-tips can also be used (especially for cats).

Be consistent. Make it a goal to brush daily because this gives the most benefit.  Do it at the same time every day to make it part of your pet’s routine.  Not every attempt will be successful at the beginning and that’s okay!  Just keep trying.

My pet refuses to brush, now what?

Let’s be real– some pets just will not allow you to brush their teeth no matter how hard you try!  Luckily, there are some great products that can be used as an alternative to brushing.  Prescription and over-the-counter dental food, chews, and treats are designed to remove the plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth as they chew.  Water additives help to prevent plaque from sticking to the teeth.  For maximum benefit, try using a combination of products and administer daily.  A list of products that effectively prevent plaque and/or tartar can be found on the Veterinary Oral Health Council website: http://www.vohc.org/all_accepted_products.html.

Warning: not all pet products are safe

Contrary to popular belief, hard plastic bones, marrow bones, antlers and hooves do not promote good dental health.  In fact, they can break your pet’s teeth and should be avoided.

When to get your vet involved

If your pet is showing signs of dental disease, please see a vet right away.  If you’re not sure, schedule an appointment for a dental assessment (this is part of every exam at Companion Pet Hospital).  Keep in mind that most pets will need their teeth cleaned by the time they are three years old.  Early, preventative cleanings are key to keeping the teeth as healthy as possible.  If the teeth require treatment, we can help!  Call us to discuss how we can be your partner for healthier, happier pets.