Take care of those CHOMPERS

With all the sweets lately, Christmas, Valentine's and now Easter upon us we make sure our teeth are good and healthy. What about your four legged friend? How are his teeth? He doesn't have hands to pick up food so his teeth are his only resource to food and eating.

There are so many products to help us having beautiful healthy teeth and regular trips to our Dentist ensure us a white smile and cavity free but not for dogs. There aren’t Dog Dentists so we have to make sure we are taking care of our best friend’s teeth!

Dogs can get food and items stuck in their teeth not to mention the bacteria/plaque can build up on the teeth and gums and can cause infections. If you do not take are of this tooth decay can set in and could enter your pet’s bloodstream. Infection can cause many health issues and even death.

Other than brushing your dog’s teeth and seeing your Vet for check-ups there are other ways to help maintain your dog’s teeth! It can keep your Vet bills down and keep a happy dog even happier!

There are special toys to help remove the decay on your pet’s teeth such as the
Kong® Stuff'n Teething Stick Combo
The TireBiter™ Bone

There are also dental wipes for dogs, not a substitute for brushing your dog's teeth. They contain chemicals that cling to the teeth and prevent plaque from converting to tartar.

There are warning signs to possible dental problems:

• The first sign of dog dental disease is bad breath, caused by a build-up of bacteria in the mouth.
• Are there discolored, broken, missing or crooked teeth?
• Check for red, swollen, painful or bleeding gums. Look for a yellowish-brown tartar crust along the gum line and for bumps or growths within the mouth.

Remember a responsible pet owner doesn’t neglect their dogs teeth so be sure and check those CHOMPERS!

Tools for the Teeth!

We are so busy with our own periodontal care, trips to the Dentist, teeth whitening, gum care and flossing that we forget that our pet’s teeth are of great importance too.. until we smell that breath! MAN! What did he eat?

Your dog probably won’t LOVE having their chompers brushed but it really is a necessity, especially if he has yucky breath. With repetitive care and brushing he might actually start to like it.

If you are not able to have your Vet clean their teeth (which is the most recommended way), learn how to brush your dog's teeth yourself. A quick brushing a couple of times a week is far better than nothing at all.

You will need the correct tools before you start the dog teeth brushing experience:

• A pet toothbrush ~ there are many to choose from-ones with finger attachments, ones with extra fancy handles and bristles , you can just use a gauze sponge if you want.
• Pet Toothpaste~ Maybe a poulty flavored toothpaste or something a bit sweet or just plain old Baking Soda will work. Don’t use human toothpaste.
• Go ahead and prepare for clean up with the washcloth and towel because it can get messy.

There are pet care sets available like Kissable dog toothpaste and toothbrush that will include both items needed, all in one. 

Feeding your dog dry dog food or hard dog biscuits everyday and provide a hard toy or bone to chew on will help with odor and will help prevent periodontal disease and other infections and gum diseases. Certainly a dog mint or two every now and then won’t hurt either!

How To Brush Your Dog's Teeth
by petside