Home Dental Care for Dogs

Dr. Jana Levin, DVM, Diplomat American Veterinary Dental College

Home dental care for your dog has the same goal as home dental care for yourself, to remove dental plaque. Plaque is the sticky, whitish film with the bad taste and offensive odor that accumulates inside the mouth. Plaque is about 85% bacteria and will mineralize to form tartar. Plaque accumulation causes infection in the gums (gingivitis) and of the bone around the teeth (periodontitis). Your dog depends on you to provide home dental care and regular professional examinations. Use one or more of the following methods, as recommended by your veterinarian.

Daily Toothbrushing

This is the very best home dental care you can provide for your pet. Toothbrushing removes plaque above and below the gumline. Daily removal of plaque slows the accumulation of tartar and helps prevent gum and bone infections. Use a soft toothbrush and or dog toothpaste. The ProClean ™ toothbrush has end-rounded, very thin bristles that create a flexible, gentle brush. It is made in four sizes, so it comfortably fits your dog's mouth and teeth. For small to medium dogs, an electric brush called a Rotodent ™, an electric toothbrush, is very effective. Dog toothpastes are made to be swallowed, unlike toothpastes for people. This is important because your pet cannot "rinse and spit". Dog toothpastes have flavors that appeal to them, such as peanut butter, poultry and malt. Brush the outer surfaces of the teeth. For most dogs, their tongue keeps the inner surfaces clean, so you don't need to brush the surfaces next to the roof of the mouth or the tongue. Take your time, be patient, and be generous with praise and rewards. From your dog's perspective, toothbrushing means attention from you, tasty toothpaste on a soft brush, and a reward afterwards. Your veterinarian or veterinary dental technician can show you how to brush your dog's teeth.

Antibacterial Oral Gel or Rinse

An antibacterial oral gel or rinse made for dogs is another option. When brushing is not possible, daily use of CET Gel or CET Rinse will help slow accumulation of dental plaque. For some dogs, CET Gel should be used instead of toothpaste. The fish flavored gel and the malt-flavored rinse are usually well accepted. Ask your veterinarian or veterinary dental technician to demonstrate how to apply the gel or rinse.

Chew Toys

Chew toys partially remove plaque and tartar above the gumline, exercise the jaw muscles, and satisfy your dog's natural urge to chew. Different dogs have different chewing behaviors, so choose toys based on your dog's chewing activity. Your veterinarian can help you find the right type and size of toy. Any chew toy can lodge in the throat or stomach and cause problems, so supervise your dog when he or she has a chew toy. Never give your dog hard chew toys such as cow hooves or bones. Hard chew toys will break your dog's teeth. In order of increasing durability, toys worth trying include Gumabones™, Rhinos™, and Plaque Attackers™. Many dogs enjoy crunchy treats such as rice cakes and carrots.

Dental Checkups

Home dental care and regular professional examinations help protect your dog's health. Most dogs need a dental exam every six months. Ask your veterinarian how often your dog needs a dental exam. Even if your dog appears normal, provide regular professional examinations because dogs can effectively hide severe dental problems.