The most common dental problem - plaque and tartar
By far the most common problem with our dogs' oral health is the formation of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a bacterial coating that forms on the dog's teeth, and is caused by both the dog's natural oral flora and diet. When plaque mixes with minerals in the saliva it hardens and builds up, and eventually becomes tartar.
Almost all dogs get problems with tartar at some point in life. However, small breeds or breeds with short noses are clearly overrepresented, and they also often get problems at a younger age, some as early as one year old. In the long run, tartar leads to a worse problem - periodontitis, or tooth loss as it is also called, and the process can move quickly. The most effective way to keep tartar away is to brush your dog's teeth.
Which toothbrush should I use?
There are special toothbrushes adapted for a dog's mouth, but a soft children's toothbrush works well. For dogs that have a small mouth or find it hard to accept the toothbrush, there are also small finger toothbrushes that you slip over your index finger and use to gently rub against the teeth and gums. For the really experienced dog, you can even use an electric toothbrush!
What kind of toothpaste is best?
Dog toothpaste comes with both active enzymes and antimicrobial properties, and a big advantage is that they are flavoured, which can make the dog actually enjoy the tooth brushing. The most important effect, however, is not the toothpaste, but the brushing itself against the teeth. That is what keeps the coating (the plaque) away and the tooth surface clean. Do not use fluoride toothpaste, as it is toxic to dogs. In other words - do not share your toothpaste with your doggo! 🐶
How often do I have to brush my dog's teeth?
For tooth brushing to have an effect, the teeth should ideally be brushed every day, so it is best to try to find a fun routine around the tooth brushing. Getting it done every day can feel overwhelming at first, especially if the dog does not like it. Then you can aim for every second or third day, but if it happens less often than that there is a risk that the plaque has already taken hold, affected the tooth surface or caused an irritation in the gums.
How do I get started with brushing my dog's teeth?
When you get started you need to have patience and take it step by step - do not think you can brush every tooth in the dog's mouth, inside and out, the first time. Break it up into smaller, shorter training sessions and start with the teeth that are easiest to reach - usually the dog's small front teeth and canines. As the dog gets used to it and it goes well, you can slowly but surely try to reach further back in the mouth, around the dog's molars. You can also split it up so that, for example, you take the right side of the mouth one day and the left the next, if the dog does not have the patience to get the whole mouth brushed at once.
It is much better to take a little at a time and create a positive feeling around the tooth brushing than to push the dog too hard. Remember to praise and reward a lot! If you search on YouTube there are several informative videos with tips on how to get started with training around tooth brushing.
If your dog already has tartar, you should start by booking an appointment with your vet. You cannot brush away tartar, and do not try to scrape it off yourself, as it can damage the enamel surface of the teeth. Instead, have your dog's teeth cleaned professionally at your veterinary clinic, so you have a clean and healthy mouth to start brushing, which will be easier to keep that way.
In short: soft toothbrush, dog toothpaste, patience, and make it a positive routine! Good luck 💜🦷