A healthy mouth is an essential part of your dog’s overall well-being. Bad breath, yellow or brown teeth, and swollen gums are signs that your dog may be suffering from dental diseases.

In fact, according to the American Veterinary Dental Society, more than 80% of dogs over the age of three have some form of dental disease. The good news is that you can prevent and treat many dental problems in your dog by following these simple tips:.

1. Regular Brushing

Just like humans, dogs need regular teeth brushing to remove plaque and prevent tartar buildup. You should aim to brush your dog’s teeth at least once a week. However, ideally, you should brush them every day.

You can use a soft-bristled toothbrush and dog toothpaste. Do not use human toothpaste as it contains fluoride, which is toxic to dogs. If your dog is not used to brushing, introduce it gradually, and give lots of praise and treats to make it a positive experience.

Also, do not forget to brush the teeth at the back of the mouth where plaque buildup is most common.

2. Dental Chews and Bones

Dental chews and bones can be an excellent addition to your dog’s oral care routine. They help to scrape off tartar and massage your dog’s gums. However, not all chews are created equal.

Look for products that have the Veterinary Oral Health Council’s (VOHC) seal of approval. This seal indicates that the product has been tested and proven effective at reducing tartar and plaque buildup. Do not give your dog cooked bones, as they can splinter and cause choking, obstruction, or even puncture the intestines.

3. Regular Vet Checkups

Regular dental checkups with your veterinarian can help detect dental problems early when they are still treatable. During these appointments, your vet will examine your dog’s teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of dental disease.

They may also recommend a professional cleaning if your dog has significant tartar buildup. A professional cleaning involves scaling and polishing the teeth under general anesthesia.

4. Healthy Diet

A healthy diet is essential for your dog’s overall health, including their teeth. Feeding your dog a balanced diet that is rich in protein and low in carbohydrates can help prevent tooth decay.

Avoid feeding your dog sugary and sticky treats, which can stick to the teeth and lead to plaque and tartar buildup.

5. Provide Fresh Water

Make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Water helps to flush out food particles and bacteria that can lead to bad breath and dental disease.

Change your dog’s water bowl frequently to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other contaminants.

6. Use Mouthwash

Dog mouthwash can be an excellent addition to your dog’s oral care routine. It can help freshen your dog’s breath and kill bacteria that cause plaque and tartar buildup.

Look for a mouthwash that is specifically designed for dogs and contains safe ingredients. A mouthwash is best used after brushing your dog’s teeth.

7. Be Alert for Signs of Dental Disease

Be on the lookout for signs of dental disease in your dog, such as bad breath, yellow or brown teeth, swollen gums, and difficulty eating. If you notice any of these signs, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible.

Early detection and treatment can help prevent the progression of dental disease and save your dog from discomfort and pain.

8. Start Early

Like with many things in life, prevention is key. Start your dog’s oral care routine early, ideally when they are still a puppy.

This will help them get used to the brushing and other dental care practices and set them up for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.

9. Avoid Anesthesia-Free Teeth Cleaning

Some pet stores and groomers offer anesthesia-free teeth cleaning. While this may seem like a convenient and affordable option, it can be dangerous for your dog’s health.

Anesthesia-free cleaning can only clean the visible parts of the teeth and cannot address dental problems beneath the gum line. It can also cause your dog to panic and struggle, which can lead to injury.

10. Be Patient and Consistent

Oral care can take some time and patience to become a regular habit in your dog’s routine. Be patient, consistent, and remember to reward your dog for their cooperation.

With time, they will get used to the brushing and other oral care practices, and you will be rewarded with a happy and healthy furry friend.