Just like us humans go to the dentist, your pet’s vet is their source of oral health and wellness - but with support at home, your pet can have a happier smile while you save on potential dental surgeries and related vet-visits down the line. Dental health plays a crucial role in your pet's overall well-being, impacting everything from their comfort to even their lifespan!
Every time you brush your pet’s teeth, you help prevent stinky breath, but you also help protect them against gum disease, tooth decay, and other potential serious health issues that come from poor dental hygiene. Poor periodontal health is associated with kidney, liver and heart disease, and overtime can lead to severe oral pain and diminished longevity.
It’s also the best form of home dental care that you can give your pet. Yes, supplements like oral chews, food and water additives, and certain treats or diets can help - but they’re exactly that - supplements to what should be a daily routine.
Healthy Teeth, Healthy Pets, Big Smiles!
Dental disease is a silent, but very real, troublemaker! Plaque buildup leads to inflammation and disease, putting your fur baby in serious discomfort and pain - but you may not notice it.
Showing pain in the animal world is a sign of weakness - your pet will hide discomfort for as long as they can, which means by the time you notice, it’s really time to see the vet!
Brushing your pet’s teeth regularly isn’t just about maintaining that adorable smile or preventing a charming case of tuna breath, it’s about giving them the gift of a healthy mouth which maintains their comfort in day-to-day dog and cat life.
So what does “regularly” mean? Daily.
Building a habit takes time, so building up from once a month to once a week, and eventually every day, is the best way to achieve success. Plaque builds up within mere hours of brushing, so in order for it to be effective, you’ve got to be consistent.
Creating a Routine: Brushing Made Easy
Brushing your pet’s teeth might feel like a daunting task at first - but just like learning any new habit, starting small and staying consistent makes all the difference!
Take Baby Steps: Introduce your pet-safe toothbrush and toothpaste slowly, letting your pet get familiar with the texture and taste before attempting to brush.
Find the Right Moment: Pick a time when your pet is relaxed - perhaps after a big play session or a meal. The higher their energy, the higher their potential anxiety. Use this time to get them used to you touching their mouth - touch around the gums and then follow up with lots of praise or a yummy treat. Associate mouth handling with positivity!
Reminder Use Pet-Friendly Products: Always choose toothpaste formulated for pets. Human toothpaste can be harmful to your furry friends.
Be Gentle and Positive: Use a soft brush and gentle motions, focusing on the gum line, all while you offer lots of praise and a treat afterward to make it a positive experience.
Create a Routine: Once you’ve gotten your pet to feel comfortable with mouth handling and the toothbrush, find a time of day that works best for you and stick with it so that you can build a solid routine!
Think of brushing as another way to show your pet love and care!
When NOT to brush:
Bloody gums when brushing
You see a fractured or missing tooth
Your pet has heavy plaque and tartar buildup
You see a problem area you can’t identify
Your pet is showing signs of pain when you attempt to brush or handle
If you notice any of these when attempting to brush your pet’s teeth, contact your vet right away before starting or continuing brushing. Irritating an already-painful area can incite even more pain and you risk breaking your bond with your pet by forcing them into discomfort.
Comprehensive Dental Care
Daily brushing is a great start, but just like humans, it's not the entire dental story. Regular veterinary dental check-ups are essential for catching issues early, and professional cleanings may be necessary to remove stubborn tartar that brushing at-home can’t handle.
Wagnolia is committed to supporting you in every aspect of your pet’s health - from providing personalized advice to comprehensive professional dental care, we’re here to ensure your pet’s mouth stays as healthy and happy as the rest of them!
A Lifelong Bond, A Healthier Future
Your pet’s health is intertwined with your joy and time together. Through making dental care a habit and priority, you’re truly investing in their well-being and ensuring that the moments you share, especially in your pet’s senior years, are as happy and comfortable as possible.
We absolutely love being a part of your journey in caring for your beloved pet! Reach out to us for tips, support, or to schedule a dental check-up.
Vaishali Joshi, DVM
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