Here’s How to Take Care of Your Dog’s Teeth

Taking care of your dog’s teeth is extremely important for your pet’s health and well-being. That’s because, just like humans, dogs need good oral hygiene to prevent illness. Lack of care can lead to a number of dental problems such as cavities and tooth loss.

Symptoms to watch out for

Some symptoms may indicate that the oral health of the animal Its not good. Luciana Capirazzo, a veterinarian at Hospital Vet Popular and specialized in veterinary dentistry, lists:

• Halitosis (bad breath);
• Gingivitis (inflammation of the gums);
• Oral bleeding;
• Loss of teeth;
• Constant sneezing;
• Difficulty eating dry food or solid food.

When identifying any of these signs, it is essential that the tutor takes the animal to the veterinarian in order to identify the problem and treat it properly.

Dangers of poor oral health

Lack of care with oral hygiene can cause complications for the health of pet. As explained by the veterinarian, this type of negligence can cause anything from tooth loss to jaw fractures. That’s why dog ​​teeth care is so important.

Best phase to start brushing

It is recommended that the tutor start brushing the dog’s teeth when he is still a puppy, so that the animal gets used to this practice more easily and avoids dental and health problems in the future. However, according to Luciana Capirazzo, it is also possible to insert this habit into the adult dog’s routine, as dental care must occur at all stages of life.

How to brush a dog’s teeth

For brushing, the veterinary doctor recommends the use of soft bristle brushes with a small head (appropriate for dogs) and toothpaste. veterinarian. Toothpaste for human use should not be used under any circumstances, as it contains components that may endanger the health of the animal.

Luciana Capirazzo recommends that the tutor brush the teeth of the pet daily and for a period of 5 minutes, making circular movements. “Preferably, at the same time, so that it becomes a habit”, he indicates. Also, it’s important not to force the brush against the dog’s teeth or gums, so you don’t hurt him. It is not necessary to rinse the animal’s mouth after brushing, as veterinary toothpaste does not cause problems if ingested.

Care while brushing

Some care must be taken during brushing to avoid hurting the animal and the guardian. According to the veterinarian, if the puppy is not used to brushing, he can bite the brush and even break it. In this case, the tutor needs to be aware that the pet do not ingest the item. “The beginning of brushing is a persistent and slow job”, emphasizes the professional.

Oral health allies

In addition to brushing, there are other ways to ensure your dog’s oral health. “There are, on the market, snacks aimed at oral health, mouthwashes and products to put in the water that the animal drinks”, lists the veterinarian. However, these options should not replace brushing. In addition, it is important to carry out an annual dental evaluation in order to identify dental problems early and treat them before they become more serious.